Toronto Blue Jays icon Buck Martinez announced that he has been diagnosed with cancer. The former Toronto player and manager has worked as Sportsnet's play-by-play announcer for the past 12 seasons. Following today's Blue Jays game against the Oakland Athletics, he will be stepping away from the booth to undergo treatment.

Sportsnet posted the message from Martinez, who expressed his gratitude for the medical staff that has helped him with his treatment. The 73-year-old is looking to rejoin the broadcast booth at some point this season.

Martinez spent the final six years of his 17-year career with the Blue Jays. The former catcher spent eight seasons with the Kansas City Royals and three with the Milwaukee Brewers. He recorded 618 hits and 58 home runs across 1,049 career games and worked with star pitchers like Dave Stieb, who commended his calming presence and communication abilities, and Steve Busby before retiring in 1986.

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In 2001 and 2002, he managed the Blue Jays. He posted a 100-115 record across those seasons. In between his retirement and managerial stints, he broadcasted Toronto games. In 2010, he went back to the broadcast booth for Toronto games. From 2003 to 2009, he worked as a commentator for Baltimore Orioles games.

The Blue Jays shared a message from team president Mark Shapiro, who wished Martinez the best in his battle with cancer on behalf of the organization.

Martinez has called Blue Jays games with fantastic enthusiasm. Although the team is enjoying an exciting season, it will have a different feeling until Martinez returns.