Player notes: John is most famous for being the first to undergo "Tommy John surgery" in which a tendon was transplanted from the right forearm to the elbow in his pitching arm. The then-revolutionary surgery saved John's career. After an 18 month rehabilitation during which he missed the entire 1975 season, John returned to win 20 games three times, and help lead three teams to league championships.

A control specialist with an outstanding sinker, John was able to pitch in the Major Leagues for 26 years, a record exceeded only by Nolan Ryan. He pitched for six different teams, most notably the Dodgers (two World Series appearances, one 20-win season) and the Yankees (one World Series appearance, two 20-win seasons). His 288 wins place him 22nd on the All-time career list, and is the most of any pitcher not to achieve the 300 win plateau. He is also on the leader board for most games started (6th) and shutouts (26th).

By all accounts, John is a very nice and likable man as well as a great player. His place in baseball history is secure, as the phrase "Tommy John surgery" is now part of the sport's lexicon. Although he has not yet been elected to the Hall of Fame, his career merits serious consideration for the honor.