Tommy John, longtime pitcher who won 288 MLB games and whose name became synonymous with a medical procedure that has saved the careers of many pitchers, died at the age of 83.
His impact on the league has been profound and sparked plenty of reactions across the sport of baseball. Here's what some players had to say.
Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole, who underwent Tommy John surgery in March 2025
“I think the first thing that comes to mind is just how much of a trailblazer he was, and what great perseverance he had, venturing into the unknown with the surgery, and really writing the writing the book, writing the script for how to push through it and overcome it, and ultimately have success afterwards. In Tommy's instance, it extended his career and gave him a second half, and I'm a beneficiary of that. Other pitchers have been a beneficiary of that, late in your career, get a second bite at the apple, and what a blessing it is that we get to see these great players continue on such a great path, and it's because of you know Tommy John and Dr. Jobe.”
Padres pitcher Casey Mize, who underwent TJ surgery in June 2022
"It's certainly sad, but his name will live forever in baseball. He changed a lot of careers because of what he did, especially after coming back from the surgery. We've got this thing (operation) figured out these days, but it was revolutionary for him. I'm sure there was probably a lot of unknown and fear going into it because it was so innovative. It took courage, and I applaud him for that. So many players, like myself, are now connected to his name because of the same procedure."
White Sox pitcher Davis Martin, who underwent TJ surgery in May 2023
"Tommy John, the surgery, the ability to come back and play baseball, after that tiny ligament is gone, back in the day you are not going to be able to throw ever again. The fact that you get a second chance and maybe sometimes even a third chance at throwing or just prolonging careers, the longevity in the game, playing the game we love longer, very blessed, very thankful that the surgery that kind of gives you those opportunities. Very important."
Nationals pitcher Jake Irvin, who underwent TJ surgery in Oct. 2020
“He revolutionized the game of baseball. For somebody like me who went through that injury in the Minors, a guy like that was able to pave the way to allow me to extend my career for a really long time. I just think that it went from a death sentence to something now that has become a potentially really big light in somebody's career. I know it has in mine. Just being able to attack the rehab, go about it the right way and then come back stronger from it. Super sad to hear of his passing, but I know that his name will live on for forever."
Yankees manager Aaron Boone
“Obviously, a tremendous career. I hope people remember how outstanding his career was, and not just being named for the injury that we know very well now. He came over in '82 to the Angels when my dad was there, and was part of that American League West championship team that went in the playoffs. I can see his windup; one of my favorite windups to imitate, but a great career, and obviously a lasting legacy.”
Rockies pitcher Gabriel Hughes, who underwent TJ surgery in July 2023
"Before him, that would have been a career-ender, so it gave me a second chance, it let me get back. That's something you can't really put a price on, having another chance to come back, another opportunity. It's extended my career. There had to be a pioneer at some point. There had to be a trailblazer, someone who did it, who took a risk, and I'm obviously thankful that it worked out and that I was able to benefit from it."