Tommy John, the former New York Yankees pitcher who first underwent the elbow surgery that has been used to further the careers of players for decades, released a statement to fans as the franchise celebrated Old-Timers’ Day on Saturday. John, 83, said in his message he was "saying goodbye" as the team revealed he’s been battling health issues in Florida. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM"Thank you to all the fans who supported me & my teammates for 26 years. "The day I left for my first job as a pitcher, my father looked at me & said, 'Good luck, Tommy. Just remember one thing: whether you make it big in the big leagues or you don't, you'll always just be Tommy John from Terre Haute, Indiana,'" his message added.