Doctors for Hall of Famer Gary Carter said that they are “90 percent certain” that the tumors found on his brain are malignant.

“It is with a heavy, yet hopeful heart, that I share with you the news that Dr. Friedman shared with our family early this afternoon …that he is 90% certain that the tumors are malignant,” according to a statement on the family website (via the New York Post)

“It was very hard for all of us to hear, as we have been hoping and praying that the tumors would be benign,” the website said. “… We understand that we have a long road ahead of us, and we’re doing all we can to mentally, emotionally and spiritually prepare for the journey.”

Carter will begin chemotherapy and radiation treatments as soon as the diagnosis is confirmed.  Doctors are optimistic that the tumors are treatable.

In his 19-year Major League career with the New York Mets, Montreal Expos, San Francisco Giants and Los Angeles Dodgers, the catcher hit .262 with 324 home runs and 1,225 RBIs.

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