You really hate to hear anything like this:
Cincinnati Reds pitching coach Vern Ruhle has been diagnosed with cancer, the team announced on Thursday.Ruhle, entering his third year with the organization and first as pitching coach, underwent physical examinations last week.
"Our thoughts and prayers right now are with Vern and his family," Reds general manager Wayne Krivsky said. "We are in the process of arranging for Vern to get the best possible treatment. His health and recovery is our foremost concern at the present time. The Reds, our medical team and Vern's doctors are working closely together to make sure everything is being done to treat his illness."
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"I want to express my sincere thanks to the Reds organization and medical team for all their support during this time," Ruhle said. "My doctors feel that they've caught this at an early stage and it is very treatable. I am prepared to follow their direction and do whatever it takes to overcome this disease. In the meantime, I am keeping a very positive attitude.
"I plan to maintain a presence in spring training, but there will be times when I am away from the team for a few days as I receive treatment."