Tommy John, the famed former New York Yankees pitcher who was the first to undergo the now widely used elbow surgery that has extended the careers of many players, released a farewell message to fans on Saturday, August 8th, 2026, during the Yankees' Old-Timers’ Day celebration.

At 83 years old, John announced he is "saying goodbye" as he battles health issues in Florida. In his statement, he expressed gratitude to the Yankees organization and the Steinbrenner family for the opportunity to address fans, along with thanks to all the friends and supporters who followed his 26-year career.

John recalled advice from his father when he began his pitching 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.”

John's 1974 surgery, performed by Dr. Frank Jobe, saved his pitching arm and allowed him to win more than 160 games after the operation. He missed the entire 1975 season but went on to become a three-time All-Star. This surgery has since become a standard procedure that has saved the careers of countless pitchers, including many of today's top players.

Images from his career show John pitching against teams like the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium in 1988 and the Oakland Athletics at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum in 1989.

He 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."