Former Red Sox great Carl Yastrzemski is undergoing bypass surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital. Yaz was an 18-time All-Star and a legend on the Bosox teams in the ’60s and ’70s. He was the star of stars on the 1967 Red Sox team that went to the World Series, only to lose in seven games to the St. Louis Cardinals. Yaz won the Triple Crown that season — the last Triple Crown winner.

The 1967 Red Sox were the first Cinderella team in our memory. Jim Lonborg was the pitching star. Still can’t forget Lonborg dropping a bunt and pitching a 2-0 win over the Minnesota Twins on the last day of the season to capture the American League pennant. Tony Conigliaro was the slugger, until Jack Hamilton of the Angels beaned him. The injuries suffered from that pitch cut short what many believed could have been a Hall of Fame career. There was the late-season acquisition of Hawk Harrelson. Most of all there was Yaz. He played left field like no other and he could hit the ball. A piece of Red Sox history.

Here’s wishing him the best. And a speedy recovery. 

Statement from Yaz’s family: “After numerous tests and evaluations, it was determined that he needed triple bypass surgery, which was performed this afternoon.  The surgery was a complete success and he is resting comfortably,” the statement read. “ We are most grateful for all of the prayers and support we have received.”