Former MLB pitcher and ESPN baseball analyst Curt Schilling revealed Wednesday he has cancer.
Schilling released a statement through ESPN saying in part, "I've always believed life is about embracing the gifts and rising up to meet the challenges. We've been presented with another challenge..."
The 47-year-old Schilling didn't specify the type of cancer or his prognosis, but said in the statement he'll fight the illness with the help of his "incredibly talented medical team." (Via New York Daily News)
In his 20-year pro career, Schilling pitched for the Baltimore Orioles, Houston Astros and the Philadelphia Phillies.
He was named co-MVP of the 2001 World Series, alongside teammate Randy Johnson, while with the Arizona Diamondbacks, but most recently appeared on the pitcher's mound with the Boston Red Sox. (Via MLB, Wikimedia Commons / Googie man)
Part of his legacy with the Red Sox is the actual bloody sock he wore during Game 2 of the 2004 World Series while helping force a Game 7 against the New York Yankees. (Via CNN)
Schilling has dealt with a serious illness before, suffering a heart attack in 2011 and undergoing surgery to place a stent in an artery.
Several people reached out and offered support to Schilling after his announcement Wednesday, including former MLB pitcher Randy Johnson and ESPN coworker Stuart Scott, who is also battling cancer. Scott posted, "Our fight vs cancer just gained a new warrior ... HONORED 2fight WITH him!" (Via Twitter / @RJ51Photos, @StuartScott)
A Los Angeles Times writer cites an ESPN spokesman who says Schilling will take a leave absence from "Sunday Night Baseball" to fight his illness.
