Baseball legend Tommy John, remembered after passing at age 83

Former New York Yankees pitcher Tommy John, remembered for his pioneering contributions to baseball, passed away at the age of 83 in his Florida home in Lakewood Ranch. John, who played for the Yankees from 1979 to 1982 and from 1986 to 1989, was known for his 26-season career that spanned from 1963 to 1989. He was traded to the White Sox following his debut with Cleveland in 1963, and later joined the Dodgers in 1968.

John's breakthrough moment came in 1974 when he underwent an experimental surgery performed by Dr. Frank Jobe, which revolutionized sports medicine and allowed him to return to the mound in 1976. Despite not being inducted into the Hall of Fame, John's impact on baseball was undeniable, as his courage to brave the experimental surgery and his resilience in recovering from near-paralysis forever changed the game.

He went on to have a successful career as a television analyst, college and minor league baseball coach, and motivational speaker after retiring from playing in 1989.