Aaron Boone to have heart surgery

KISSIMMEE, Fla., March 18 (UPI) -- Houston infielder Aaron Boone said Wednesday he will undergo heart surgery that will keep him out of the lineup this season.

Boone described the heart condition as "not an emergency situation" but said surgery is needed to correct the problem. He said the procedure would be scheduled this week.

"I have been identified as having a heart condition involving the aorta and aortic valve," Boone said at a news conference. "Will I play baseball again? I don't know at this time."

Many of his Houston teammates were present at the announcement to show their support.

Boone is a third-generation major leaguer. Ray Boone, his grandfather, played 13 seasons and Bob Boone, his father, played 19 years. He is the brother of former major leaguer Bret Boone, a 14-year veteran.

Aaron Boone broke into the majors with Cincinnati in 1997. He's also played with the New York Yankees, Cleveland, Florida and Washington. He joined the Astros in December.

He has played in 1,142 games over 11 seasons, building a .264 batting average with 126 home runs and 555 runs batted in.