Former major league pitcher Tommy John, the namesake behind the pioneering elbow surgery that prolonged his career for 14 more years, died Saturday at the age of 83, the New York Yankees said in a statement.
John died at his home in Bradenton, Florida. A cause of death was not given, but he had bladder cancer and dealt with other ailments in recent years.
“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,” the team said in its statement. “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.”