Pitching legend Tommy John, known for the groundbreaking elbow surgery that extended his time on the field by 14 years, has passed away at 83, as confirmed by the New York Yankees.
John’s life came to an end at his residence in Bradenton, Florida. While the cause of death remains undisclosed, he had faced a prolonged battle with bladder cancer and other health issues in recent years.
In a heartfelt statement, the New York Yankees expressed their grief over John’s passing. The team highlighted his pivotal role in their roster and his cherished status among fans. His impressive persistence and post-surgery feats not only transformed countless athletes’ careers worldwide but also somewhat eclipsed his prowess on the mound, notably including two consecutive 20-win seasons with the Yankees.
Reflecting on his overall contributions, the Yankees paid tribute to John’s competitive spirit, his affinity for engaging conversations, his gracious character, and his status as both an athletic figure and a medical trailblazer. They extended their heartfelt sympathies to his family and close friends.
In August, John hinted at his health struggles when he missed the Yankees’ Old-Timers Day, sharing a message of farewell to his friends and fans who had supported him during his remarkable 26-year career.
“I will never forget you,” John said in his message posted to social media.
After suffering what had been up to then considered a career-ending injury, John, then 31, underwent ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction surgery on his left (pitching) elbow in 1974, with the revolutionary procedure being performed by Dr. Frank Jobe. The procedure was named after John and has since become commonplace, performed on thousands of players — not just pitchers — with a typical recovery time of a year to 18 months.
John, a four-time All-Star nicknamed “The Bionic Man,” went on to pitch for 14 more seasons after the surgery.
John had 124 wins in 355 games at the time of the procedure. He pitched in 405 more games, winning 164, and finishing with a career record of 288-231 with a 3.34 ERA in 760 career appearances. Besides eight seasons with the Yankees, for whom he won 91 games over two separate stints, John pitched for the Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, California Angels, Cleveland Indians and Oakland Athletics.
“Thanks to Dr. Jobe, who saved my arm