KISSIMMEE, Fla. Ex-Yankee Aaron Boone will have open heart surgery to replace an aortic valve.

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Boone, now with the Astros, made the announcement yesterday, saying he has known about his heart condition since college, but tests done after his routine physical determined he needed surgery. It is not an emergency, but doctors indicated the procedure was needed. He said doctors told him he could play baseball when he recovers, but he’s not sure if he will. “It definitely hits home, but I’m doing well with it,” Boone said. “I have a strong faith and a great family and friends and teammates. I really am doing well and I’m ready to tackle this thing and get it behind me and get on with life.”