What Did Tommy John Say In His Final Letter? Inside The MLB Legend's Last Days Before Death At 83

After a difficult battle with cancer, MLB icon Tommy John has died at the age of 83. Meanwhile, know more about his final letter to his fans.

Major League Baseball legend Tommy John was one of the few players who created history in the league. However, it was less related to a record and more to a significant medical procedure. Tommy has now bid farewell to the world at 83. According to reports, the former pitcher passed away peacefully at his home in Florida. In fact, he was surrounded by his wife, Cheryl, and their family. Tommy died just days after he shared a heartfelt farewell letter to his fans and the baseball community that defined his life. 

Tommy John left a heartfelt final letter to his fans 

Before Tommy John passed away, he shared a heartfelt last message for his fans. He shared a special message during the New York Yankees' Old Timers' Day celebration. The former pitcher took the opportunity to express his gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout his illustrious baseball career. 

Tommy's declining health prevented him from attending the event. But his letter was a way for him to reflect on his long career. At the same time, he expressed his gratitude to the Yankees organizations, former teammates, friends and fans. Overall, the letter was a touching farewell from a player whose impact on the game went far beyond his on-field numbers. In his words:

"I want to thank the Yankees organization & the Steinbrenner family for giving me this opportunity to say goodbye to everyone, along with all the friends & fans who followed me throughout my 26-year career. The day I left for my first job as a pitcher, my father looked at me & said, '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.' I've never forgotten those words."

Moreover, Tommy did not forget to remember the late Dr. Frank Jobe. For those unaware, the surgeon performed an experimental elbow reconstruction in 1974 to save the former pitcher's career. Back in those days, most of the people thought Tommy's career was over after he suffered a torn ulnar collateral ligament. However, the surgery helped him return to Major League Baseball. Eventually, the surgery changed sports medicine forever. Sharing his gratitude for the late doctor, he wrote:

"Thanks to Dr. Jobe, who saved my arm & made it possible for me to continue pitching. That surgery has since gone on to save the careers of countless pitchers, including many of the very best in the game today."

After sharing the emotional message, Tommy's health continued to deteriorate. Some reports claim that he had entered hospice care at his Florida home. Meanwhile, he was surrounded by his loved ones. According to those close to him, the baseball icon spent his final days with his family. 

Tommy John was reportedly battling many health issues during his final years. His bladder cancer had returned, and he also faced many age-related complications. However, the health struggles could not deter him from staying connected to the baseball community. 

Overall, Tommy had a 26-year-long career. During that time, he got 288 victories and four All-Star selections. He also pitched for six different franchises. It included the Cleveland Indians, the California Angels, the Chicago White Sox, the Oakland Athletics, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the New York Yankees. Meanwhile, Dr. Frank's surgery has now been included in the other procedures performed on athletes, which bears Tommy's name. 

All about Tommy John's lesser-known family

At the time of his death, Tommy was legally married to Cheryl John. She remained by his side during his final days. People close to Tommy mentioned how Cheryl stood by him during his health battles in his final years. 

Before tying the knot to her, John was married to Sally Simmons. They had four children together: Tamara, Tommy III, Travis, and Taylor. Meanwhile, his family is expected to hold a private celebration of life for the legend in Florida.

Rest in peace, Tommy John. We share our heartfelt condolences to his family in this difficult time. 

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