Former MLB pitcher Tommy John, a four-time All-Star with 288 career wins, died Saturday at age 83 in Bradenton, Florida. John became a medical pioneer after undergoing revolutionary ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction surgery in 1974 performed by Dr. Frank Jobe, a procedure now common among pitchers with a success rate of roughly 80% compared to the initial 1% odds. Nicknamed 'The Bionic Man,' John pitched 14 more seasons after the surgery, compiling a 288-231 record.

The American Medical Association estimates 35% of active MLB pitchers have undergone the procedure. John's legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements, including three World Series appearances and back-to-back 20-win seasons with the Yankees in 1979 and 1980. The Hall of Fame honored John and Jobe in 2013, though John never received enough votes for election.

His teammates and current stars like Gerrit Cole, Shohei Ohtani, and Justin Verlander have paid tribute to his groundbreaking surgery that transformed athletic careers.