Mets legend Gary Carter has brain cancer

(CBS News) 

This post was written by Evan Brunell and originally appeared on CBSSports.com's Eye on Baseball blog.

Gary Carter was diagnosed with four brain tumors earlier on Saturday, as he revealed in a statement through the New York Mets.

"Earlier today, I learned that four very small tumors have been found on my brain, following an MRI on Friday at a West Palm Beach facility," Carter wrote. "I am scheduled to be examined further Thursday at Duke Medical Center, and we will learn more at that time about my diagnosis."

Carter will likely need to undergo surgery for the condition. The New York Daily News reported that Carter had been complaining of forgetfulness and headaches in recent days, which prompted a visit to doctors.

The longtime Met went into the Hall of Fame wearing a Montreal Expos hat, but is widely recalled for his time in New York, where he spent five of his 19 seasons, including a World Series title in 1985, his first year behind the dish for the Mets.

He also added 12 years with the Expos and one apiece with the Giants and Dodgers. All told, the backstop hit .262/.335/.439 with 2,092 hits and 324 home runs.

"My wife, Sandy, and our children and family thank you for your thoughts and prayers," Carter added. "We ask that you please respect our privacy as we learn more about my medical condition."

[copswife1125]

Listen CBS...you are wrong. Gary Carter, as of today May 29, does not have brain cancer. Your reporting is erroneous and you need to correct yourselves. Shame on you for reporting incorrect news and adding more stress to the Carter family.

[baseballturt]

I wish Mr. Carter the best and hope the tumors are benign. The headline shouldn't say "cancer." It seems like yesterday he was playing.... how time flies!

[kcits]

Gary Carter was a class act all the way. One of the greats I saw play, even though he played for teams far away. I will be praying for his recovery.

[opedanderson2]

Mets????

He was a legend up in Montreal when I lived there. He couldnt walk down the street without hordes of people surrouning him. And he was always nice to anyone who approached him.

The whole of Montreal is praying for him and his struggle.

Bon Chance Mon Ami!!

[workerdroid]

Nice note. I followed him when he was with the Expo's. Always thought he was a classy guy. It ain't just Montreal that's praying for him, though. He was well thought of everywhere he went.

[johnnieonenote]

Why does the story headline say 'Cancer'; that has not been ascertained! Many brain tumors are not cancer; look at Mary Tyler Moore's recent BENIGN surgery. You guys will do anything to grab readers. Best of luck Gary and my thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family.

[jes1955]

I was very distressed to hear the news about my all-time favorite baseball player. I was a Mets fan from the beginning (was as the 1969 World Series games!) and Gary Carter was my hero from the time he set foot on the playing field. I have only one baseball card in my collection and it is Gary Carter's. I will be wishing all the best for this stellar man and his family. Although I haven't been following the Mets lately, I will never forget the excitement I got while watching the old team play. Those were truly "the days". Get well, Mr. Carter. We're all rooting for ya. Julie from Queens

[remybklyn]

Get better, Kid! Also, Carter won his WS title with the Mets in 1986, not 1985.

[baileyccc]

God speed to a really great guy............

[pbcityvet]

His press release or initial story does not say anything about cancer. Let's not speculate about what the tumors are unless a more thorough diagnosis is perfrom. Tumors do not necessarily mean it's cancer.