The baseball community is deeply saddened by the passing of Tommy John, a remarkable pitcher whose extraordinary 26-year career has left an indelible mark on the sport. John, known for his left-handed prowess on the mound, passed away at the age of 83.
On Saturday, John departed peacefully from this life. He was surrounded by loved ones at his home in Bradenton, Florida, where he had been under hospice care.
Throughout his extensive career, Tommy John became a legend in Major League Baseball, crafting a legacy over three dynamic decades that few in the sport have matched. His name is synonymous with perseverance and excellence in pitching.
Although his legacy was cemented with the Los Angeles Dodgers, John’s rise to prominence began with the Chicago White Sox, where his talent earned him an All-Star accolade. It was this distinction that paved the way for his signing with the Dodgers before the 1972 season, a move that would amplify his celebrated status.
During his time in Los Angeles, John delivered unforgettable performances. Over three impressive seasons, he became the league leader in win-percentage for two consecutive years. Unfortunately, his momentum was halted late in 1974 when he suffered a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his left elbow, an injury that would ultimately highlight both his resilience and ability to overcome adversity.
The prompted team physician Dr. Frank Jobe to replace the ligament, a surgery that was the first of its kind and considered radical at the time.
That surgery, today known as Tommy John surgery, is the most recognizable surgical procedure in all of baseball.
Despite missing the 1975 season, he managed to go 47-27 the next three seasons with the Dodgers. He helped Los Angeles win three National League pennants in his time out west, losing in the World Series each time.
His career would push forward for more than another decade, including two more All-Star appearances with the New York Yankees.
All told, John pitched 26 seasons, made the All-Star team four times, finished runner-up in the Cy Young voting twice, and to this day, has the second most wins in the modern era of baseball with 288 (among players not in the Hall of Fame).
Following the news of his passing, reactions poured in from all corners of the baseball world.
Mets legend Keith Hernandez, while broadcasting the game on Sunday, provided some insight into just how talented John was.
“Tommy was with the Dodgers… He led with a slider that broke like this,” Hernandez showing more than a foot of break with his hands.
“I remember [thinking] I had never seen a slider like that from a left-hander before… He was just a wonderful man… he should be in the Hall of Fame, I’m going to continue to promote him for that.”
The Dodgers organization released a statement amid the unfortunate news.
“We are saddened to hear the news of Tommy John’s passing today,” said Stan Kasten, President & CEO, Los Angeles Dodgers. “Tommy was an exceptional pitcher throughout his career in Major League Baseball, and his courageous role in becoming the first to have surgery that would go on to bear his name can’t be overstated. His impact both on and off the field has been felt by ballplayers of all ages and will be for generations to come.”
Even fans were touched by the passing star.
“Tommy John pitched for Dodgers from 1972-78. I saw him pitch in person at Dodgers Stadium. Got his autograph as a 10 year old boy in 1972. He was such a nice man. He will be missed Michele!,” one X user posted.
“RIP Tommy John. Even before he lent his name to the surgery that revolutionized sports medicine, he was a terrific SP. I had the good fortune to see him win a bunch of games for some terrible White Sox teams…and anchor the staff of the 1977 Dodgers,” wrote another.
He is survived by his wife Cheryl, and his children Tommy, Travis and Tamara. A private celebration of his life will be held in Florida.