MLB Legend Phil Niekro Dead at 81 After Painful Battle With Cancer
Baseball Hall of Famer Phil Niekro has passed away at the age of 81 following his lengthy battle with cancer.
The devastating news was announced by his former team, the Atlanta Braves, stating that the iconic athlete died in his sleep at his home in the Atlanta suburb of Flowery Branch.
"We are heartbroken on the passing of our treasured friend, Phil Niekro," the statement said, adding: "Knucksie' was woven into the Braves fabric, first in Milwaukee and then in Atlanta. Phil baffled batters on the field and later was always the first to join in our community activities. It was during those community and fan activities where he would communicate with fans as if they were long lost friends."