MLB mourns former Braves pitcher Hanson, dead at 29

The world of Major League Baseball reacted with shock on Tuesday following the sudden death of former Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim pitcher Tommy Hanson at the age of 29.

Hanson passed away at Atlanta's Piedmont Hospital late Monday after reportedly suffering from catastrophic organ failure, a day after being admitted following a respiratory problem.

"We are incredibly saddened to learn of Tommy's tragic passing," Braves President John Schuerholz said in a statement.

"He was a favorite in our clubhouse and with our staff and he will truly be missed by everyone in Braves Country. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, family, former team-mates and friends."

Hanson's former Braves team-mate Andrelton Simmons added: "Very sad to hear about Tommy Hanson. Wish his family and close friends a lot of strength. He was a really nice dude."

Hanson made his debut for the Braves in 2009 after being ranked as the top pitching prospect in baseball during the 2008 Arizona Fall League.

He produced a 3.28 earned run average over 77 starts during his first three Major League seasons but was hampered by shoulder and back problems that disrupted his career.

He was traded to the Angels in 2012 but did not play at Major League level again after 15 appearances in 2013.
Source: AFP