Tommy John, who pitched 26 seasons in the majors, including eight with the Yankees, has died at the age of 83.

“The New York Yankees mourn the passing of Tommy John, who was a bedrock of our rotation during his time in pinstripes and a longtime favorite of Yankees fans," the club said in a team statement. "While his incredible longevity and post-surgery achievements changed the fortunes and trajectory of countless athletes around the world, it also overshadowed his excellence as a pitcher, which included consecutive 20‑win seasons with the Yankees. We pause to remember the totality of his legacy — his competitiveness and skill, his penchant for conversation, his kind and gracious nature, and his stature as an athletic and medical pioneer. The Yankees extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends, including wife, Cheryl, daughter, Tamara, and sons Tommy III and Travis. We also keep his son Taylor in our hearts.”

John did not appear at this year's Old Timers' Game at Yankee Stadium, and instead shared a message from his home in Bradenton, Fla. as he battled health issues, saying in part:

"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."

John also thanked Dr. Frank Jobe, who performed UCL reconstruction surgery on the pitcher in 1974 that is now forever known as Tommy John surgery.

John pitched in eight seasons with the Yankees (1979-82, 1986-89), posting a 3.59 ERA. He also pitched for the White Sox, Dodgers, Angels, Indians, and Athletics in a career that spanned from 1963-89.

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