Baseball legend Tommy John has died at 83.
The longtime MLB pitcher passed away at his home in Bradenton, Florida, after receiving hospice care.
But his legacy goes far beyond his 26-year career.
In 1974, John suffered a devastating elbow injury that doctors believed could end his career.
Instead, he became the first major athlete to undergo an experimental ligament-replacement procedure performed by Dr. Frank Jobe.
Against the odds, John returned to baseball—and even won 20 games in 1977.
The groundbreaking procedure later became known as “Tommy John surgery” and has helped countless pitchers return to the sport after serious elbow injuries.
John pitched until age 46, finishing with 288 wins, more than 2,200 strikeouts, four All-Star selections, and three World Series appearances.
He may never have made the Hall of Fame.
But his name became part of baseball history forever.
Tommy John didn’t just save his career. He helped change the game. ⚾❤️