Baseball Hall of Famer Keith Hernandez is in mourning after his cat passed away last week at the age of 22.
Recommended Videos
The two-time World Series champion and five-time all-star announced the death of his pet in a social media update Wednesday.
“It’s with a heavy heart that I must tell you that I had to put Hadji down last week,” the member of the Mets TV broadcast team wrote on X.
“It was his time to go. I loved him so much and miss him dearly. He was a great companion for 22 (years). RIP my little guy.”
In a subsequent post, Hernandez shared a photo of him cradling the elderly grey-and-white feline.
“My old buddy. See you in another life. I know you’ll be waiting for me with open paws.”
Hernandez explained that the internet-famous Bengal cat had no quality of life.
“He passed painlessly and with dignity,” he added. “Tough one. I don’t think I’ll ever get over it.”
RECOMMENDED VIDEO
According to WebMD, Bengal cats have a lifespan of between 12 and 16 years.
A month ago, Hernandez helped celebrate Hadji’s birthday with a variety of food, treats and toys for the little guy.
Hadji, named for one of the main characters on the 1960s TV cartoon Jonny Quest, became famous on the internet after Hernandez began posting about him in 2018, reports MLB.com.
Fans and followers across the baseball community offered their condolences following the news of his death.
“I’m sorry for your loss Keith,” shared New York Post baseball columnist Jon Heyman.
The Subway To Shea Podcast account also shared their sorrow at his loss.
“We know he meant the world to you. My thoughts and prayers are with you right now.”
Mets broadcaster SNY and Gary Cohen and Ron Darling, fellow members of the broadcast team, shared their condolences on Instagram.