ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS

Former Diamondback Curt Schilling diagnosed with cancer

Feb 5, 2014, 10:37 PM | Updated: 10:45 pm

One of the best pitchers in Arizona Diamondbacks history now faces his toughest challenge yet.

Curt Schilling, who was with the Diamondbacks from 2000 to 2003, was diagnosed with cancer.

The news was reported by ESPN.com, whom Schilling, now 47, works for as an analyst.

“I’ve always believed life is about embracing the gifts and rising up to meet the challenges,” Schilling said in a statement released by ESPN. “We’ve been presented with another challenge, as I’ve recently been diagnosed with cancer.”

Schilling, who attended Shadow Mountain High School in Phoenix, compiled a 58-28 record with a 3.14 ERA in 108 games with the Diamondbacks. He helped lead the team to the World Series title in 2001, where he was named co-MVP along with fellow hurler Randy Johnson.

“My father left me with a saying that I’ve carried my entire life and tried to pass on to our kids: ‘Tough times don’t last, tough people do.’ Over the years in Boston, the kids at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have shown us what that means. With my incredibly talented medical team I’m ready to try and win another big game.

“I’ve been so very blessed and I feel grateful for what God has allowed my family to have and experience, and I’ll embrace this fight just like the rest of them, with resolute faith and head on.”

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