Randy Jones, a beloved former pitcher for the San Diego Padres and recipient of the 1976 National League Cy Young Award, has passed away at the age of 75. His death was announced by the Padres in a statement expressing their grief over the loss of a franchise cornerstone who enriched the team and the community for over five decades.
Jones, the first pitcher in Padres history to win the Cy Young Award, carved out a decade-long MLB career from 1973 to 1982. His remarkable performance during the 1975 and 1976 seasons, in which he achieved a commendable 42-26 record alongside a 2.50 ERA, made him a standout player on a team that often struggled for success. Over those two seasons, Jones threw 11 shutouts and completed 43 games while earning All-Star selections both years. In 1976, he produced a league-leading 2.24 ERA and garnered attention nationally, even gracing the cover of Sports Illustrated with the headline, “Threat to win 30.”
Fans adored Jones not only for his pitching skills but also for his relatable persona. With an unassuming appearance and a signature 1970s perm, Jones embodied the spirit of an everyman athlete. His sinkerball, which only maxed out at 80 mph, baffled hitters, including Pete Rose, who once resorted to left-handed batting in hopes of besting him. This combination of humble demeanor, tactical pitching, and engaging presence on the field contributed to his popularity.
During his time in San Diego, Jones became such an attraction that fans would rise to their feet as he made his way to the bullpen, significantly driving up attendance figures during his starts compared to the team’s average.
Sadly, the rigors of his peak performance took a toll on his body. A torn nerve in his left biceps tendon during his final start of 1976 required surgery, and ultimately, he was unable to recapture his earlier form. He was traded to the New York Mets after the 1980 season and ultimately retired after a brief stint with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
After his playing career, Jones remained an integral part of the Padres community. He became an ambassador for the team, attending games and engaging with fans at Petco Park. His legacy continued through his restaurant ventures and his involvement in team broadcasts. In 2017, Jones revealed that he was battling throat cancer, but he was touched by the community’s support and announced he was cancer-free in 2018.
Born on January 12, 1950, in Fullerton, California, Jones was drafted by the Padres in 1972 after attending Chapman College. His overall Major League career totals stood at 100 wins, 123 losses, and a 3.42 ERA, but these statistics fail to fully capture the lasting impact he had on the Padres franchise and its fans. His uniform number 35 was retired by the team in 1997, a testament to his profound influence.
As the baseball community mourns his loss, many remember Jones as a giant not only in the history of the Padres but also in the hearts of San Diego fans. His legacy as a pitcher and a beloved figure is sure to remain celebrated for years to come.