Blue Jays broadcaster and former player Buck Martinez is stepping down from his role at Sportsnet following a cancer diagnosis, he announced on Sunday.
“Today will be my last game in the dressing room for a while as I was recently diagnosed with cancer and will begin the treatment process in the coming weeks,” Martinez said in a statement. “I’m so honored and privileged to have the support of Blue Jays fans, colleagues, staff and players since I arrived here in 1981, and that continued support in this next challenge means the world to me.
“I am grateful for a great medical team who have given me great optimism that I will come through this with flying colors. I’m hoping to return to my Sportsnet teammates for the stretch run later this season, but in the meantime I’ll be watching from the sidelines as I fight the good fight.
Buck Martinez AP
“I thank everyone in advance for respecting my privacy and that of my family at this time.”
Martinez has been with Sportsnet since 2010 as both a play-by-play announcer and a color analyst. Before working with the Blue Jays, he was a color commentator on Orioles shows between 2003 and 2009.
He had a 17-year playing career with the Royals, Brewers and Blue Jays, with a reputation as a good defensive catcher and over 1,000 games played.
He also managed the Blue Jays in 2001 and part of the 2002 season.