Randy Jones, the San Diego Padres’ first Cy Young Award winner, died Tuesday at age 75, the team announced.
Jones was drafted by the Padres in 1972 and became the club’s first pitcher to appear in an All-Star Game in 1975. He was an All-Star the following year when he won the NL Cy Young Award.
The left-hander had a 92-105 record with a 3.30 ERA for the Padres from 1973-80. He is the franchise’s career leader in starts, complete games, shutouts and innings pitched.
He retired after two seasons with the New York Mets, moved back to San Diego and became a fixture to the community.
A statement from the Padres said:
“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. Inducted into the Padres Hall of Fame in 1999, his impact and popularity only grew in his post-playing career, becoming a tremendous ambassador for the team and a true fan favorite. 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.
“We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his wife Marie and the entire Jones family during this difficult time. RJ will be greatly missed.”
The cause of death was not disclosed.
Jones was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2016. He said doctors told him it was the result of chewing tobacco he used as a player and cigars used throughout his life.