Ron Darling has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer, the former major league pitcher with the Mets and current SNY analyst announced Monday.

Ron Darling announced on Monday that he has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer, but he shared an optimistic prognosis and said he could return to work as a Mets analyst for SNY “in the next month or so.”

The news came three weeks after Darling, who pitched for the Mets’ 1986 World Series-winning team, revealed that he had not been feeling well and tests revealed “a large mass” in his chest that required surgery.

advertisement

On Monday, he said the surgery and further tests indicated cancer.

Best wishes and a safe, speedy recovery, @RonDarlingJr.



Statement from Fred and Jeff Wilpon:



“Our thoughts and prayers continuously remain with Ron for a full recovery and we look forward to seeing him back in the broadcast booth soon.” pic.twitter.com/cjOCveFSqO — New York Mets (@Mets) Apr 103, 2019

“My doctors have said they are optimistic that the cancer is treatable and that I would be back on air talking baseball in the next month or so,” his statement read. “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everybody for their continued support.”

Darling has been part of SNY’s acclaimed Mets booth alongside Gary Cohen and Keith Hernandez since 2006. He also is the lead analyst for Turner’s national baseball coverage.

Hernandez wrote on Twitter, “My heart goes out to Ron Darling. I know that Ron will beat this insidious disease. I’m heartened to hear that his doctors are very optimistic for a full recovery.

“I will stop at my church this day and light a candle for Ron and his entire family. I look forward to RJ’s return.”

Subscribe to Newsday’s sports newsletter Receive stories, photos and videos about your favorite New York teams plus national sports news and events. By clicking Sign up, you agree to our privacy policy.

The Mets said in a statement, “Upon receiving today’s update on Ron’s prognosis, we are comforted to know that his condition is treatable and look forward to seeing him back on the air soon.”

Todd Zeile, SNY’s lead studio analyst, has been filling in for Darling.

advertisement

Before the leave began, Darling said on the air, “I’ll kick it’s you-know-what. I’m really reporting this for Keith to know he’s going to have to do some extra games.”

Darling, 58, pitched for the Mets in nine of his 13 major-league seasons. In 1986, he was 15-6 with a 2.81 ERA. He started Game 7 of the World Series but did not get a decision in the Mets’ victory.