Tommy John surgery impacts numerous MLB careers after pitcher's passing

Tommy John, the first recipient of the surgery that reshaped baseball, passed away on August 15 at the age of 83. His collaboration with orthopedist Frank Jobe changed the futures of countless MLB pitchers. Notable beneficiaries include John Smoltz, Justin Verlander, Shohei Ohtani, and Chris Sale, whose careers were either saved or extended by the procedure. John’s legacy in baseball extends beyond his own achievements, influencing generations of pitchers.

• 8:26 PMYahoo Sports — Thank you, Tommy John: MLB pitching careers saved by the groundbreaking surgery