Fremantle have suffered yet another AFL pre-season setback, with defender Alex Silvagni admitted to hospital due to a stomach infection.

Silvagni was taken to hospital on Tuesday and although the Dockers anticipate his stay will be brief, it is unknown how long the 23-year-old will be out of action for.

"Tests to determine the nature of the infection are ongoing," Fremantle said in a brief statement.

The setback is another big blow to the Dockers, who will already be without Garrick Ibbotson, Roger Hayden, Matt de Boer, Michael Barlow, Tendai Mzungu, Byron Schammer and Anthony Morabito for their season opener against Brisbane at the Gabba on Saturday night.

Silvagni played 15 games in his debut season last year and his absence will further test Fremantle's depth.

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