A very familiar face and important cog in the Yankees universe won’t greet the players in Tampa this week when spring training camp opens.
As The Post reported yesterday, legendary athletic trainer Gene Monahan will miss his first spring training in 48 years due to a “significant illness” that possibly could sideline him for the beginning of the regular season.
“I miss not being around my professional family already, but I’m battling,” Monahan said in a statement released by the team. “The New York Yankees have gone above and beyond in this most difficult time. I couldn’t do this alone, but with the support and love of my immediate family, my family within our organization and the dedication and expertise of many fine doctors, I look forward to resuming my role with the team this season.”
Monahan has taken a medical leave of absence and is in the New York area undergoing treatment that is expected to last for the next couple of weeks.
Monahan, who turned 65 in October, is the longest-tenured head athletic trainer in the major leagues.
Monahan helped many Yankees players over the years, including pitcher David Cone.
“We spent a lot of time together rehabbing after two surgeries. The thing about Gino is he is a very gracious person who really cares,” Cone said Sunday. “He is one of the most sincere people you will ever want to meet. He cares about the players and takes it to heart.”
Cone was asked how Monahan’s absence will affect the Yankees.
“It’s a huge hole because Gino is so well respected,” Cone said. “But (assistant trainer) Steve Donohue is also well respected. They have been a great team.”
Cone once bought Monahan a car to express his gratitude.
“After all the rehabs, I think it was 1998, I bought him a car,” Cone said. “He is a big NASCAR guy. I bought him a Grand Am. I drove it to the Stadium, gave him the keys and the title. He was stunned. He gave the car to his daughter and he tells me she still has it.”
Assistant trainer Steve Donohue will fill in for Monahan. The Yankees haven’t decided who will assist Donohue while Monahan is out.