Harmon Killebrew Diagnosed with Cancer

ROCHESTER — Minnesota Twin’s legend Harmon Killebrew has released a statement reveling the 74-year old Hall of Famer has been diagnosed with esophageal cancer.

“While my condition is very serious, I have confidence in my doctors and the medical staff and I anticipate a full recovery,” Killebrew said via his statement. Killebrew is currently undergoing treatment for his cancer at the Mayo Clinic. “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,” he said. ”(My wife) Nita and I feel blessed to have access to the best doctors and medical care.”

Killebrew was inducted into the baseball Hall of Fame in 1984, his fourth year of eligibility. His career spanned over 20 years from 1951-1974, his number has been retired by the Twins and he has been immortally enshrined in bronze outside of Target Field. During his legendary career Killebrew hit 573 home runs and drove in 1,584 runs with a .256 career batting average. He was fifth on the all-time home run list at the time of his retirement. He also ranks 11th on the all-time home run list and is a member of the elite 500 home run club.

”I thank everyone for their outpouring of prayers, compassion and concern,” he said. “Nita and I ask for privacy during this difficult journey.””