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Tommy John Dies at 83 After 14-Season Comeback

8/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Tommy John died Saturday at age 83 at his Florida home after hospice care, with no cause given.
The New York Yankees called him a bedrock of their rotation and a fan favorite.
Dodgers doctor Frank Jobe performed ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction on John’s left elbow in July 1974, later called Tommy John surgery.
The surgery let him pitch 14 more seasons, adding 164 wins to reach 288 victories.

History

Historical Context

In July 1974 Dr. Frank Jobe repaired Dodgers pitcher Tommy John’s torn elbow, pioneering UCL reconstruction that added 14 seasons and 164 wins to his 288-career total. The procedure, later adopted by Japan’s Choji Murata in 1982, now accounts for roughly one-third of MLB pitchers. John’s 2024 death reminds the sport of this lasting medical legacy.

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Story summary

Tommy John died Saturday at age 83 at his Florida home after hospice care, with no cause given.
The New York Yankees called him a bedrock of their rotation and a fan favorite.
Dodgers doctor Frank Jobe performed ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction on John’s left elbow in July 1974, later called Tommy John surgery.
The surgery let him pitch 14 more seasons, adding 164 wins to reach 288 victories.

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