Killebrew diagnosed with cancer; 'most difficult battle of my life'
Get the 1500 ESPN SportsWire delivered to your inbox daily, and keep up with all the news in Twin Cities Sports
Sad news from the Minnesota Twins organization Thursday -- Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew was recently diagnosed with esophageal cancer.
"With my wife, Nita, by my side, I have begun preparing for what is perhaps the most difficult battle of my life," Killebrew said in a team-issued statement. "I am being treated by a team of medical professionals at the Mayo Clinic. While my condition is very serious, I have confidence in my doctors and the medical staff and I anticipate a full recovery.
"The Mayo Clinic is one of the largest and most experienced medical centers treating esophageal cancer in the world. In the past decade, they have made tremendous advances in the treatment of this disease. Nita and I feel blessed to have access to the best doctors and medical care.
"I thank everyone for their outpouring of prayers, compassion and concern. Nita and I ask for privacy during this difficult journey."
Killebrew, 74, hit .256/.376/.509 with 573 home runs in 22 seasons. He spent 21 of those seasons with the Minnesota Twins and Washington Senators.
Killebrew was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1984.
