Former Yankees pitcher Tommy John posts farewell message as he enters hospice care

Tommy John, the former New York Yankees pitcher whose name became synonymous with the elbow surgery that extended pitchers' careers, posted a farewell message on social media on Saturday. The 83-year-old, who is now in hospice care after a recurrence of cancer, used the note to thank the Yankees organization, the Steinbrenner family, Dr. Frank Jobe, and fans who followed his 26-year career.

"I want to thank the Yankees organization and 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 wrote.

He also acknowledged Dr. Jobe’s pioneering surgery in 1974, which allowed him to continue pitching and later helped countless other pitchers. John recalled his father's advice to "always just be Tommy John from Terre Haute, Indiana," and concluded with a gratitude statement and a blessing.

John debuted with the Yankees in 1963 and spent nearly eight seasons with the club. After undergoing the now-famous surgery, he added 164 wins to his record, bringing his career total to 288 victories before retiring.