Tommy John, the famed former New York Yankees pitcher who underwent the pioneering elbow surgery in 1974 that has since extended the careers of countless pitchers, has sent a farewell message to fans as he battles health issues in Florida.

At 83 years old, John released his statement during the Yankees' Old-Timers’ Day celebration on Saturday, August 9, 2026. In his message, he expressed gratitude to the Yankees organization and the Steinbrenner family for the opportunity to say goodbye, and thanked friends and fans who supported him throughout his 26-year Major League Baseball career.

John recalled advice from his father before starting his professional career: “Good luck, Tommy. Just remember one thing: whether you make it big in the big leagues or you don't, you'll always just be Tommy John from Terre Haute, Indiana.”

After missing the entire 1975 season due to the surgery, John went on to win more than 160 games and was a three-time All-Star. His surgery, performed by Dr. Frank Jobe, saved his pitching arm and has become a standard procedure that has helped many of the best pitchers in the game today.

John concluded his message with heartfelt thanks: “Thank you to all the fans who supported me & my teammates for 26 years. I will never forget you. I've never forgotten those words. Thank you & God Bless.”

Sources