Tommy John, a former Major League Baseball pitcher known for the surgery that bears his name, passed away at the age of 83. His agent, Mike Maguire, confirmed the news.
Tommy John at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, N.Y., circa 1987. (Getty Images)
According to Maguire, John died peacefully at his home in Lakewood Ranch, accompanied by his loving wife Cheryl and his sister-in-laws, Judith Florentino and Karen Jordan. A private celebration of his life will take place in Florida.
His death follows the release of a farewell message to fans during the New York Yankees’ Old-Timers’ Day. In his message, John expressed gratitude towards the Yankees organization and the Steinbrenner family, acknowledging his battle with health issues.
“Thanks to Dr. Jobe, who saved my arm, allowing me to continue pitching,” John stated. “That surgery has since extended the careers of many other pitchers.”
Tommy John’s surgery in 1974 was revolutionary in baseball, leading to his successful return to the sport and enabling him to record over 160 victories after the procedure. He missed the 1975 season but returned as a three-time All-Star.
John completed his career as a four-time All-Star, spending eight of his 26 seasons with the Yankees. He also played for the Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, California Angels, Cleveland Indians, and Oakland Athletics. Throughout his career, he achieved a 3.34 ERA and 2,245 strikeouts.
“The day I left for my first job as a pitcher, my father said, ‘Good luck, Tommy. Always remember, you’ll always just be Tommy John from Terre Haute, Indiana.’ I’ve never forgotten those words. Thank you and God Bless,” he recalled.
John also appeared before the U.S. Senate Appropriations subcommittee on ALS in 2005, demonstrating his commitment to issues beyond baseball.