Former Los Angeles Dodgers star Pedro Guerrero in critical condition

Former Los Angeles Dodgers star Pedro Guerrero is in critical condition at a New York hospital after suffering a brain hemorrhage on Monday night, a surgeon told USA Today.

Guerrero was in a coma Monday night and underwent a procedure in which a tube was placed through a hole in the skull to drain fluid from the brain, according to Rafael Ortiz, the lead surgeon who specializes in major brain issues at Lenox Hill Hospital.

"The swelling on the brain has improved a little bit," Ortiz told USA Today on Tuesday. "He's now following commands and is understanding what we are saying. While he's in critical condition, he's doing much better than last night."

Guerrero is breathing with the support of a ventilator and is heavily medicated.

"It could go either way," Ortiz said. "He's still recovering and could go on to live a meaningful life, but it's too early to tell."

Guerrero, 60, reportedly has suffered at least one stroke in the past and underwent surgery for one two years ago at the same hospital.

Guerrero was a four-time All-Star for the Dodgers from 1978 to 1988 and topped 30 homers on three occasions. He shared MVP honors with teammates Ron Cey and Steve Yeager in the 1981 World Series.

Guerrero was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals during the 1988 season. He made one All-Star team during 4 1/2 seasons in St. Louis.

Guerrero compiled a .300 career batting average with 215 homers and 898 RBIs.