Rangers' Hamilton takes Friday off to rest up - www.roanoke.com

ARLINGTON, Texas - Josh Hamilton was an excused absence from the World Series on Friday.

Actually, Hamilton was following orders by staying home and resting up for Game3 today.

Rangers manager Ron Washington told his star outfielder to get as much rest as possible for the groin strain that's lately robbed him of his power. A week before, the Rangers had an optional workout before Game 6 of the AL championship series and Hamilton used that as another day of at-home recovery.