Kirk Gibson diagnosed with Parkinson’s

Associated Press

DETROIT

Kirk Gibson has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

The 1988 National League MVP revealed the news Tuesday in a statement released by Fox Sports Detroit.

“I have faced many different obstacles in my life, and have always maintained a strong belief that no matter the circumstances, I could overcome those obstacles,” Gibson said. “While this diagnosis poses a new kind of challenge for me, I intend to stay true to my beliefs. With the support of my family and friends, I will meet this challenge with the same determination and unwavering intensity that I have displayed in all of my endeavors in life. I look forward to being back at the ballpark as soon as possible.”

The 57-year-old Gibson was fired in September as manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks after four-plus seasons. He now calls Detroit Tigers games for Fox Sports Detroit, but Gibson hasn’t been in the broadcast booth since opening day on April 6 while undergoing tests.

Gibson had one of the most memorable moments in baseball history with his limping, pinch-hit home run in the ninth inning of Game 1 of the 1988 World Series for the Dodgers. He also won a championship in 1984 with the Tigers, where he played 12 of his 17 major league seasons.

“It was a shock to all of us,” Diamondbacks President and CEO Derrick Hall said. “Gibby means a lot to this organization. He had a couple of wonderful years here as manager and is always going to be a part of this family.

Hall promoted Gibson from bench coach to manager during the 2010 season.

“It’s got to be devastating news for him as it was for us,” Hall said. “But he’s got plenty of family and friends to support him and especially right here with the D-backs.”

Parkinson’s is a progressive disorder that gradually takes a toll on the nervous system. Notable figures with the disease include Muhammad Ali and actor Michael J. Fox.