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MLB

Hamilton contract talks with Rangers progressing

By STEPHEN HAWKINS,AP Sports Writer

Feb 7, 2011

Arlington, Texas — AL MVP Josh Hamilton says contract talks with the Texas Rangers are "moving in the right direction" and that a two-year deal is possible.

Hamilton said the team has approached his agent about possibly doing a deal for 2011 and 2012, which would cover his remaining arbitration years.

If Hamilton and the AL champion Rangers can't at least settle on a 2011 contract, a salary arbitration hearing is scheduled next Monday in Phoenix. The slugger has asked for $12 million, $3.3 million more Texas offered.

After working out with some teammates Monday, Hamilton said the main focus is to get the upcoming season settled. But he said a two-year deal would be a plus to avoid similar negotiations again next winter.