Buck Martinez, a long-time commentator for the Toronto Blue Jays, is retiring from the booth after being diagnosed with cancer.
Martinez provided an update on his health via a tweet from Sportsnet, the Blue Jays’ flagship station.
Martinez said, “I’ve been so honoured and delighted to have the support of Blue Jays fans, colleagues, staff, and players since I started here in 1981, and that continuous support through this next challenge means the world to me.”
“I’m grateful for a fantastic medical staff that has given me hope that I’ll be able to get through this with flying colours.”
Martinez also stated that he intends to return to Sportsnet later in the season, but for the time being, he will be “watching from the sidelines.”
Martinez, who played catcher for the Kansas City Royals, Milwaukee Brewers, and Toronto Blue Jays from 1969 to 1986, began announcing games for the Blue Jays in 1987.
He then went on to work for ESPN, MASN, and TBS before returning to the Blue Jays’ broadcast booth in 2010.
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Martinez previously served as Toronto’s manager from 2001 to 2002. We wish him the best of luck as he prepares to fight cancer.