Tommy John pens goodbye to Yankees for Old-Timers' Day during health fight

August 8, 2026 - 19:23

Tommy John, the former major league pitcher whose name became synonymous with the revolutionary elbow surgery he underwent in 1974, has written a heartfelt goodbye to the New York Yankees organization. The note comes just before the team's annual Old-Timers' Day, an event John has attended many times over the years.

John, now 81, is currently dealing with a serious health issue, though he has not shared many details publicly. In his letter, he expressed gratitude for the years he spent with the Yankees, including his time on the mound in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He also thanked the fans, the front office, and the coaching staff for making him feel like part of the family long after his playing days ended.

The pitcher made his mark in baseball history by returning from a torn ulnar collateral ligament at a time when such an injury was considered career-ending. The surgery that saved his career now bears his name and has been performed on countless pitchers since.

John's message was emotional but also practical. He noted that his health makes it difficult to travel and participate in events like he used to. Still, he wanted to make sure the Yankees and their supporters knew how much the relationship meant to him.

The Yankees have not yet announced whether John will be honored in a special way during the upcoming Old-Timers' Day, but team officials have acknowledged his note and expressed their support. Fans have taken to social media to send well wishes, remembering John not just for the surgery, but for his 288 career wins and his durability across 26 seasons in the big leagues.

For now, John's focus is on his health and his family. But his goodbye to the Yankees serves as a reminder of a career that changed the game and a bond with a franchise that never faded.