Mets’ Alderson stepping down as cancer returns

Choking back tears at a surprise news conference, Sandy Alderson revealed what he had just told his team moments before.

His cancer has returned; he’s taking a leave of absence, and his up-and-down tenure as New York Mets general manager is essentially over.

With the team in a massive tailspin, chief operating officer Jeff Wilpon and the 70-year-old Alderson made the announcement before Tuesday night’s game against Pittsburgh.

“With respect to the future, I would say two things: One is, notwithstanding the good prognosis, my health is an uncertainty going forward,” said Alderson, who agreed to a contract extension in December. “And secondly, if I were to look at it on the merits, I’m not sure coming back is warranted.”

Assistant general manager John Ricco and special assistants J.P. Ricciardi and Omar Minaya will run the club’s baseball operations in Alderson’s absence.

BRYANT PLACED ON DL >> The Chicago Cubs have placed Kris Bryant on the 10-day disabled list with left shoulder inflammation, marking the first time the fourth-year player has gone on the DL. Chicago announced the move Tuesday. It’s retroactive to June 23, making Bryant eligible to return in a week. CAIN TO MISS TIME >> The Milwaukee Brewers have placed centerfielder Lorenzo Cain on the 10-day disabled with a left groin strain and recalled outfielder Keon Broxton from Triple-A Colorado Springs. BUNDY INJURED >> Orioles righthander Dylan Bundy has been placed on the 10-day disabled list after spraining his ankle running the bases in an interleague game.

GUZMAN OUT >> The Texas Rangers have placed first baseman Ronald Guzman on the sevenday concussion disabled list and recalled utilityman Ryan Rua from Triple-A Round Rock.