Legendary Mets pitcher and Hall of Famer Tom Seaver has recently been diagnosed with dementia, his family announced on Thursday.

"Tom will continue to work in his beloved vineyard at his California home, but has chosen to completely retire from public life," Seaver's family said. "The family is deeply appreciative of those who have supported Tom throughout his career, on and off the field, and who do so now by honoring his request for privacy. We join Tom in sending warmest regards to everyone."

Seaver lives next to his vineyards, where he has been making wine since 2005.

"We've been in contact with the Seaver family and are aware of his health situation," Mets COO Jeff Wilpon said in a statement. "Although he's unable to attend the '69 Anniversary, we are planning to honor him in special ways and have included his family in our plans. Our thoughts are with Tom, Nancy and the entire Seaver Family."

Video: Mickey Callaway reacts to Tom Seaver's health

The 74-year-old Seaver pitched for the Mets from 1967 to 1977, and again in 1983. He won three Cy Young awards while with the Mets (1969, 1973, 1975), and helped lead them to the World Series title in 1969.

Seaver's No. 41 was retired by the Mets in 1988, and he was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1992, receiving 98.8 percent of the vote.

The Mets will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 1969 World Series team this summer at Citi Field.

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