Tommy John, namesake for a pioneering elbow surgery that saved his career, dies at 83

Tommy John, namesake for a pioneering elbow surgery that saved his career, dies at 83

The left-handed MLB pitcher was 31 years old when he tore the ulnar collateral ligament in his pitching elbow in 1974, an injury that had been a death knell for pitchers' careers up to that point.

Aug 16, 2026

Tommy John, whose elbow surgery transformed baseball, dies at 83

The lefty made four All-Star teams while pitching for the White Sox, Dodgers and Yankees. An innovative procedure extended his career to 26 seasons.

Aug 16, 2026

Tommy John, Pitcher Who Gave His Name to Career-Saving Surgery, Dies at 83

After tearing an elbow ligament, he underwent a risky procedure and returned at his best, changing baseball and giving new hope to injured players.

Aug 16, 2026