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Ex-MLB pitcher Tommy John, namesake of pioneering surgery, dies
ESPN • • general
Key Points:
- Former MLB pitcher Tommy John, known for the groundbreaking elbow surgery named after him, died at age 83 in Bradenton, Florida; he had battled bladder cancer and other health issues.
- John underwent the pioneering ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction surgery in 1974, performed by Dr. Frank Jobe, which allowed him to pitch for 14 more years and has since become a common procedure for athletes.
- Over his 26-year career, John achieved a 288-231 record with a 3.34 ERA, was a four-time All-Star, and won 20 or more games in three seasons, pitching for several teams including the Yankees, Dodgers, and White Sox.
- The surgery named after him has saved countless careers, with approximately 35% of active MLB pitchers having undergone Tommy John surgery, and about 80% returning to their previous level of performance.
- Both John and Dr. Jobe were honored by the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2013 for their significant contributions to baseball and sports medicine.
