'American Idol's Casey Abrams Out of the Hospital, In the Competition

Casey Abrams is out of the hospital and still in the running to become the next 'American Idol,' according to TMZ.

Abrams received a blood transfusion earlier today and was released from the hospital. He's already gone through two rehearsals of his number for tonight's Top 12 taping.

TMZ's source says Abrams will not need to go back to the hospital after taping.

***Update***

He's the best musician Randy Jackson's seen in the 10-year history of 'American Idol' and he's a Top 24 favorite as America gets ready to cast their votes next week, but Casey Abrams' 'Idol' journey may be tragically short.

Abrams was hospitalized on Wednesday after complaining of severe stomach pain. According to TMZ, Abrams remains in the hospital awaiting a blood transfusion, with the Top 12 boys taping looming this afternoon.

Sources tell TMZ the decision to go on or not is up to Abrams and producers will allow him to rehearse with the band at 4:30PT today and then tape his performance. He may then decide to return to the hospital after the taping.

All of this leads to speculation on a number of levels. If Abrams, who's already earned a reputation for his inventive and energized performances, does make the taping, how will his health affect his performance? And how will fans perceive him?

Last year, Crystal Bowersox's health issues late into the competition forced the producers to make a scheduling switch, but Abrams won't be afforded the same accommodation. In fact, if his condition is chronic, Nigel Lythgoe and company are likely thinking of replacing him now, rather than having to deal with a drop-out later on in the season.

Last year, Tim Urban made it back into the competition, finishing seventh after Chris Golightly was DQed over a prior recording contract. This begs the question, who will the producers give Abrams' slot to if he does indeed drop out?

Most likely, Chris Medina. While Colton Dixon, Deandre Brackensick and Jacee Badeaux may have better musical chops, both fans and the media have embraced Medina and his heartbreaking love story. In fact, he'll be performing on 'The Tonight Show' this evening.

If Abrams does drop out (and that decision will come in the next few hours), the timing would be right for Medina to return. However, he'll probably have to cancel the Leno gig, as it would give him an unfair advantage.

We'll keep you updated on Abrams' condition as we learn more, but here's hoping he pulls through.

'American Idol' airs Wednesdays and Thursdays (and sometimes Tuesdays) at 8PM ET on Fox.