Rangers release Hamilton after knee injury during rehab

Josh Hamilton's road back to the majors took a devastating hit Friday, as the Texas Rangers announced they've released the former AL MVP. Hamilton injured his right knee during rehab and requires surgery, which will mark his fifth time going under the knife in the past 19 months.

The veteran was recovering from a Feb. 26 surgery on his left knee.

"I am disappointed but not discouraged that my knee problems have not allowed me to play this season," Hamilton said in a statement, according to Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News. "I plan to have surgery on my right knee and then evaluate the situation. I want to thank the Rangers and all of the great fans for the support and encouragement. I really appreciate it."

The 35-year-old was signed to a minor-league deal in January. Hamilton last appeared in a major-league game in 2015, as several injuries have derailed his once promising career.

General manager Jon Daniels wished Hamilton well in a statement.

"Josh will forever hold a place in Rangers history as one of the most talented, charismatic and productive players to wear our uniform. We wish him all the best in his upcoming recovery, and with his family."

If this is the end of Hamilton's career, it included some impressive play on the diamond. He was an All-Star for five straight seasons from 2008-12, while hitting.305/.363/.549 and contributing 22.3 WAR over that span.

During his 2010 MVP season, he became the first player in Rangers history to finish with a .359 batting average. On top of leading baseball in that category, he was also first in slugging (.633) and OPS (1.044).