Paying Tribute to a Padres Icon: Randy Jones Passes Away at 75
Randy Jones Obituary, Death News – The San Diego Padres organization and the baseball community are mourning the loss of a true franchise cornerstone, Randy Jones, who died Tuesday at the age of 75. The left-handed pitcher holds a legendary place in Padres history, most notably as the first player ever to bring the prestigious National League Cy Young Award to San Diego.
Jones’s journey with the Padres began when he was drafted by the expansion club in 1972. It didn’t take long for him to establish himself as one of the league’s most reliable and distinctive pitchers. He achieved his first major career milestone in 1975, earning the distinction of being the first pitcher in team history to be named to the All-Star Game.
The following season, 1976, became the defining chapter of his career. Jones returned to the All-Star roster and, most significantly, capped the year by winning the NL Cy Young Award, an honor that cemented his status in San Diego sports lore. Known for his unique, looping delivery and pinpoint control, he was a workhorse on the mound.
During his eight seasons with the Padres, spanning from 1973 to 1980, Jones compiled a 92-105 win-loss record with a solid 3.30 ERA. While his win-loss record might not immediately jump out, his value to the pitching staff is underscored by the team records he still holds today. He remains the Padres’ career leader in several crucial durability statistics: starts, complete games, shutouts, and innings pitched. These numbers speak volumes about his commitment and consistency during the early, often challenging, years of the franchise.
After concluding his playing career with two seasons for the New York Mets, Jones returned to San Diego. His relocation back to the city was not simply a retirement; it marked the beginning of his role as a cherished and highly visible figure in the local community. For decades, he remained deeply involved with the club and its fans, transitioning seamlessly from a pitching ace to a beloved ambassador for the Padres.
The San Diego Padres released a deeply moving statement reflecting the impact Jones had on the team and the city:
“With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, the Padres mourn the passing of our beloved left-hander, Randy Jones. Randy was a cornerstone of our franchise for over five decades, highlighted by becoming the first Padres pitcher to win the Cy Young Award.” The team emphasized that his impact only grew after his playing days ended, noting his induction into the Padres Hall of Fame in 1999. The statement also celebrated the personal connection he forged with everyone he met: “Crossing paths with RJ and talking baseball or life was a joy for everyone fortunate enough to spend time with him. Randy was committed to San Diego, the Padres, and his family. He was a giant in our lives and our franchise history.” The organization concluded by offering their sincere condolences to his wife, Marie, and the entire Jones family.
While the cause of death was not officially disclosed by the team, Jones had previously faced serious health challenges. In 2016, he was diagnosed with throat cancer. At the time, he publicly linked the diagnosis to his lifelong habits, citing the chewing tobacco he used during his playing years and the cigars he enjoyed later in life as contributing factors. Despite this health battle, he continued to be an active and vibrant presence until his passing.
Randy Jones’s legacy is that of a trailblazer—the man who first brought elite pitching recognition to San Diego—and a dedicated community member whose commitment to the team and its fans lasted long after his final pitch.
