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HOFer Tom Seaver diagnosed with dementia

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Hall of Fame pitcher Tom Seaver is battling dementia, his family announced Thursday via a Baseball Hall of Fame press release, according to Scott Miller of Bleacher Report.

"The Seaver Family announced today that Hall of Fame pitcher Tom Seaver has recently been diagnosed with dementia," the announcement read. "Tom will continue to work in his beloved vineyard at his California home, but has chosen to completely retire from public life. The family is deeply appreciative of those who have supported Tom throughout his career, on and off the field, and who do so now by honoring his request for privacy. We join Tom in sending warmest regards to everyone."

The right-hander became a legend with the New York Mets when he led the team to its first-ever World Series title in 1969.

Shortly after the announcement, Mets COO Jeff Wilpon released a statement on behalf of the team's ownership and the organization regarding Seaver's diagnosis.

"We've been in contact with the Seaver family and are aware of his health situation. Although he's unable to attend the '69 anniversary, we are planning to honor him in special ways and have included his family in our plans. Our thoughts are with Tom, Nancy, and the entire Seaver Family."

Seaver, 74, finished his stellar career with 311 wins, 3,640 strikeouts, three Cy Young awards, and 12 All-Star nods. He was inducted into Cooperstown in 1992 with 98.8% of the vote - at the time the highest percentage in the history of the National Baseball Hall of Fame - in his first year on the ballot.

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