CHICAGO (AP) – Frank Thomas had surgery on his left ankle Wednesday and might not be ready for spring training.

Thomas, who played in only 74 games this season with the Chicago White Sox, had debris removed from the ankle, a bone graft and two screws inserted.

A two-time MVP, Thomas will now be in a cast for at least eight weeks and his recovery will take from 4 to six months.

The 36-year-old Thomas batted .271 with 18 home runs and 49 RBIs before being placed on the disabled list July 7. The designated hitter was leading the American League in on-base percentage (.434) and walks (64) when he was sidelined.

In 15 seasons, Thomas is hitting .308 with 436 homers. Thomas and Barry Bonds are the only active players with a .300 career average, 400 home runs, 1,000 RBIs, 1,000 runs and 1,000 walks.

AP-ES-10-06-04 1855EDT