Red Sox announcer Remy fighting cancer

BOSTON, May 7 (UPI) -- New England Sports Network announcer Jerry Remy, color commentator for the Boston Red Sox, is battling cancer, his broadcast partner said.

Red Sox play-by-play announcer Don Orsillo said Remy is on an indefinite leave of absence to recover from cancer surgery, The Boston Globe reported Thursday.

Orsillo began a Wednesday broadcast from Fenway Park by reading from a statement written by Remy, 56, regarding his fight with cancer.

"I want to focus on completing my recovery so that I can return to work without distractions or disruptions," Remy said. "I hope that disclosing my bout with cancer will reinforce the dangers of smoking to every member of Red Sox nation, especially children."

Network President Sean McGrail said Remy, who played for the Red Sox for seven seasons, will return to the broadcast booth when he is ready.

"As part of the NESN family, we want Jerry to concentrate on his health and getting well," McGrail told the Globe. "When he's ready to return, his place in the booth will be waiting for him."