Randy Jones, the crafty left-hander whose pinpoint control made him one of the defining pitchers of the 1970s, has died at the age of 75. The San Diego Padres announced his passing on Tuesday, remembering him as a franchise cornerstone and a cherished figure in the community. No cause of death was released.
Jones became a household name during his remarkable 1976 season, a campaign that remains one of the most celebrated in Padres history. That year, his signature sinkerball and methodical pace on the mound helped him post a 22–14 record with a 2.74 ERA, leading the majors in innings pitched and delivering an astounding 25 complete games. His dominance earned him the National League Cy Young Award-making him the first Padre ever to claim the honor.
The left-hander continued his standout play the following year, earning another All-Star selection in 1977 and finishing second in Cy Young voting. His steady presence on the mound helped elevate the Padres during a challenging era for the franchise.
After his time in San Diego, Jones went on to pitch for the New York Mets from 1980 to 1982 before retiring from Major League Baseball. Although his playing days ended, his connection to San Diego never faded. Jones became a regular presence at youth programs, charity functions, and ballpark celebrations, forging deep ties with fans across generations. In recognition of his impact, the Padres inducted him into their team Hall of Fame in 1999.
Beyond baseball, Jones was known for his warm personality and enduring love for the game. He is survived by his wife, and their two sons, who shared in his lifelong devotion to the sport.
His legacy endures not only in the record books but also in the memories of fans who watched a master of command carve out one of the most iconic pitching seasons of his era.
