Yankees Release Statement Mourning the Death of Tommy John
Newsweek · C · trust 46/100
0 Share Newsweek is a Trust Project member See more of our trusted coverage when you search. Prefer Newsweek on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search. Major League Baseball icon Tommy John has died. He was 83 years old and had been in hospice care at his home in Bradenton, Florida after a long battle with bladder cancer.
John famously underwent surgery on his elbow that has revolutionized the careers of countless pitchers today. The operation, now called Tommy John surgery, was able to prolong John's career an additional 14 years.
The New York Yankees released a statement mourning the loss of the three-time American League All-Star. John played for the Yankees from 1979-82 then again at the end of his career from 1986-89.
“The New York Yankees mourn the passing of Tommy John, who was a bedrock of our rotation during his time in pinstripes and a longtime favorite of Yankees fans. While his incredible longevity and post-surgery achievements changed the fortunes and trajectory of countless athletes around the world, it also overshadowed his excellence as a pitcher, which included consecutive 20‑win seasons with the Yankees.
"We pause to remember the totality of his legacy — his competitiveness and skill, his penchant for conversation, his kind and gracious nature, and his stature as an athletic and medical pioneer. The Yankees extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends, including wife, Cheryl, daughter, Tamara, and sons Tommy III and Travis. We also keep his son Taylor in our hearts," the Yankees wrote on social media on Sunday.
Earlier this month, the Yankees hosted their annual Old Timers' Day. John was unable to attend the event due to his health battle, but he shared a heartfelt farewell to his fans, the Yankees organization and his surgeon in a statement released by the Yankees.
“I want to thank the Yankees organization and the Steinbrenner family for giving me this opportunity to say goodbye to everyone, along with all the friends and fans who followed me throughout my 26-year career.
"Thanks to Dr. [Frank] Jobe, who saved my arm and made it possible for me to continue pitching,” John said. “That surgery has since gone on to save the careers of countless pitchers, including many of the very best in the game today. Thank you to all the fans who supported me and my teammates for 26 years. I will never forget you.”
In addition to the Yankees, John played for the Cleveland Guardians, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers , California Angels and the Oakland Athletics.
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