Toronto / MLB — It was a devastating blow to the Blue Jays’ summer, as Buck Martinez, a longtime commentator, confirmed that his cancer — first diagnosed in 2022 — had returned and spread to his lungs. The announcement not only shocked fans, but also revived concerns about a living icon of the Canadian baseball community.
In an interview with the press, Martinez — in a warm voice but unable to hide his fatigue — shared: “After the Texas game at the end of May, I went to Houston for a checkup… and the cancer had spread to my lungs.”
He said the disease had returned — but instead of running away, Martinez decided to face it head on: “I’ve been through this once. And if I have to fight it again — I’ll fight it.”
Martinez had been absent from the broadcasting chair since the end of May; fans had no idea why until the shocking announcement was made public. During that time, people heard old commentary, heard the “Get up, ball!” echo in the memories of fans — missing a voice that had been associated with many seasons of the Blue Jays.
A little over two months later, Martinez made a surprise comeback — back in the commentary booth for the series at Dodger Stadium — while still undergoing chemotherapy. “I don’t know if I’ll be back,” he admitted, “but baseball — for me — is my whole life.”
This return was seen as a testament to his resilience, affirming that Martinez did not accept the final blow from cancer that had previously called him a “strikeout.”
As soon as the news spread, the Blue Jays fan community was moved. The hashtag #GetWellBuck flooded social media; many fans shared memories, favorite moments with his voice over the years. One fan wrote: “Summers without you just aren’t the same.”
Many organizations, former colleagues, and current players have sent words of support. They call Martinez not just a former player or commentator — but a living pride of the team, an inspirational icon for generations.
At a recent game, a young fan holding a “Get Well, Buck!” sign was caught on camera; the image has since gone viral, a testament to Martinez’s wide-ranging influence off the field.
A cancer relapse with lung metastases is usually bad news — but Martinez doesn’t shy away. He has undergone several rounds of chemotherapy, and after his return, had plans to continue treatment after his homestand in Toronto.
“I’m lucky,” Martinez said. “I’ve been given another chance to live. And if I have breath, I want to talk about baseball again, with you guys.”
It’s more than just words — it’s conviction, it’s an unyielding spirit.
Buck Martinez is more than just a memory; He is the bridge between the glorious past and the present of the Blue Jays. When many wonder, “Will the Blue Jays’ childhood be able to stand up?” Martinez — with his determination to stand up after a hard fall — is giving them the answer.
Every time he calls “Play ball!”, a heartbeat stops. Every time he recounts a hit, a pitch — it is a reminder that baseball is not just about winning, but about faith, about community, and about love that endures throughout life.
And as Martinez continues to fight, all of Canada, the entire Blue Jays community — is holding his hand: not letting go.
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