Hamilton to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery

ST. LOUIS (AP) Billy Hamilton will undergo arthroscopic shoulder surgery later this week, ending the season for the Cincinnati Reds speedster. General manager

ST. LOUIS (AP) Billy Hamilton will undergo arthroscopic shoulder surgery later this week, ending the season for the Cincinnati Reds speedster.

General manager Walt Jocketty announced the move after Monday night's 2-1 loss to the Cardinals. Jocketty said the surgery is set for Friday in Cincinnati.

''We think it's in his best interest to shut him down now,'' Jocketty said.

Hamilton leads the majors with a career-best 57 steals in 65 chances and also is among the National League leaders with eight outfield assists. He missed the last six starts after re-injuring his shoulder, stealing a base in his lone appearance since then.

Jocketty said team doctors examined Hamilton on Saturday in Cincinnati and found no structural damage. But the GM said it best to get the procedure done so Hamilton will be ready for spring training.

''The idea is to do it now so he can get started on his offseason conditioning program, which starts Nov. 1,'' Jocketty said.

Hamilton was on the 15-day disabled list from Aug. 19 to Sept. 7 with a shoulder injury sustained diving for a ball. He batted .226 with four homers and 28 RBIs.