Colorado Rockies pitcher Chad Bettis reveals cancer diagnosis

DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 30: Chad Bettis #35 of the Colorado Rockies pitches against the Milwaukee Brewers in the first inning of a game at Coors Field on September 30, 2016 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)

Colorado Rockies pitcher Chad Bettis was diagnosed with testicular cancer and had surgery to have one of his testicles removed, the team announced.

Bettis, 27, said in a statement that the cancer did not spread and he is expected to be with the team when they report to Spring Training in February.

Bettis said the cancer was diagnosed during a November appointment which led to further tests and advanced blood work. He had surgery on Nov. 29 to remove one of his testicles.

"The surgeon is very confident that the cancer was isolated and has not spread," Bettis said. "The Rockies and the MLBPA have been great, and I truly appreciate the care and support shown by [general manager] Jeff Bridich to both me and my family.

"My understanding is that I will be physically ready to have a normal Spring Training," he added "and I greatly look forward to the upcoming season."

Bettis went 14 -- 8 with a 4.79 ERA in 32 starts in 2016 and has a 23 -- 19 career record in three seasons with the Rockies.

- Scooby Axson

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