Astros prospect C Sapp removed from ICU

Jan 6, 2009 - 7:21 PM HOUSTON (Ticker) -- Houston Astros catcher Max Sapp is out of intensive care but remains hospitalized in Florida hospital following a bout with viral meningitis, the team announced on Tuesday.

Sapp was taken to the emergency room after an apparent seizure on December 11. It later was determined that the 20-year-old suffers from chronic sinus disease, which increases the susceptibility to meningitis.

Sapp will need occupational and physical therapy before resuming baseball activities. Sapp will continue to receive care at an Orlando Hospital for at least the next few days, according to the Houston Chronicle.

"We are all very relieved that Max is now out of ICU and beginning rehab," Astros director of player development Ricky Bennett said. "His overall health and well-being has been and will continue to be our primary concern in this situation.

"We hope he is able to fully recover and return to his regular baseball workout whenever he feels comfortable. Max is a bright and enthusiastic young man, and we wish him and his family all the best during this trying time."

Sapp told the Chronicle he lost all memory of the events leading to his hospitalization, but is now aware of his surroundings and has regained most of his memory.

"I can't believe I've been in here for almost a month and I can't wait to go home," he said in a statement.

"I just want to get ready as fast as possible and get to Kissimmee (Florida) and get my season going. I haven't felt right for a year or so and I'm looking forward to being completely healthy so I can have a great year."

The 23rd pick of the 2006 draft, Sapp hit .200 (51-of-255) with four home runs and 29 RBI in 74 games with Class A Lexington of the South Atlantic League last season.