Former Twins pitching great Frank Viola is recovering Wednesday afternoon after successfully undergoing heart surgery, The Associated Press reports.
The AP says Viola is “resting comfortably.”
Word of Viola’s heart condition surfaced last Tuesday in an ESPN report, and was confirmed by the New York Mets. Viola, 53, is a pitching coach for Mets’ Triple-A affiliate in Las Vegas.
“Frank Viola underwent a recent medical examination during spring training,” the Mets said in a statement. “Mets physicians discovered a heart condition that needed to be corrected as soon as possible. Frank will undergo surgery next week in New York. The family welcomes all prayers but requests privacy during this time.”
Viola’s daughter, Kaley, also acknowledged their father’s operation on Twitter, asking for prayers before the procedure.
Praying for my pops, @FrankViola16, this morning as he is undergoing open heart surgery. I love you daddy! #BeStrong pic.twitter.com/ivQ7m6JAds
— Kaley Viola Vogel (@KaylVi) April 2, 2014
The pitcher, who earned the nickname “Sweet Music” during his years with the Twins, also thanked his well-wishers on Twitter.
Can't thank everybody enough for all the kind words and support! Will get through this surgery and be back soon. Good luck all affiliates!!
— Frank J. Viola, Jr. (@FrankViola16) April 2, 2014
Viola retired in 1996 after 15 major league seasons. The left-hander went 176-150 in his years with the Twins (1982-89), the Mets (1989-91), Boston (1992-94), Cincinnati (1995) and Toronto (1996).
He won the 1988 AL Cy Young Award while with the Twins.
