Kirk Gibson diagnosed with Parkinson's disease

Detroit Tigers legend and 1988 National League MVP Kirk Gibson has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Gibson has been absent from the Fox Sports Detroit broadcast booth since the Tigers' Opening Day telecast.

"I have faced many different obstacles in my life, and have always maintained a strong belief that no matter the circumstances, I could overcome those obstacles," Gibson said in a released statement. "While this diagnosis poses a new kind of challenge for me, I intend to stay true to my beliefs. With the support of my family and friends, I will meet this challenge with the same determination and unwavering intensity that I have displayed in all of my endeavors in life. I look forward to being back at the ballpark as soon as possible."

Gibson, 57, was fired as Arizona Diamondbacks manager last season, before he completed his fourth season. He was the 2011 National League Manager of the Year when he led the Diamondbacks to the NL West title.

Gibson played 17 major league seasons, beginning in Detroit - where he led the Tigers to their last World Series title, in 1984 - and ending as a Tiger as well from 1993-95.