Randy Jones, the crafty lefty who became the first San Diego Padres pitcher to win a Cy Young Award, died Tuesday at 75, the team announced.
Jones spent the first eight seasons of his career in San Diego and turned himself into one of baseball’s toughest outs. Drafted in 1972, he broke out fast. In 1975, he led the National League with a 2.24 ERA and won 20 games. A year later, he delivered one of the most dominant seasons the Padres have ever seen, piling up 25 complete games, 22 wins, and the 1976 NL Cy Young Award.
He stayed in San Diego until 1980 before finishing his career with the New York Mets. Even after he hung up his spikes, Jones remained a staple of his first franchise and a familiar face around Petco Park.
“With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, the Padres mourn the passing of our beloved left-hander, Randy Jones,” the team said in a statement. “Pandy 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,” the statement continued.
“We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his wife Marie and the entire Jones family during this difficult time. RJ will be greatly missed.”
Jones battled throat cancer after being diagnosed in 2016. He is survived by his wife, Marie, daughters Staci and Jami, and several grandchildren.
During his Padres run, Jones went 92-105 with a 3.30 ERA and still holds franchise records for starts, complete games, shutouts and innings pitched. His peers considered him a master on the mound. Former teammate Merv Rettenmund, who played alongside legends like Jim Palmer and Nolan Ryan, once said, “When he was on, I’ve never seen a better pitcher.”
San Diego reporter Annie Heilbrunn paid tribute on X, writing, “Randy Jones has passed away. Anyone who knows Randy knows how special he is. Always with a kind word, a hug, and a piece of trash talk. Made everyone laugh. Gave everything to #Padres. Will always treasure our time hosting Padres Social Hour & learning from him while watching games. The best.”
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