Randy Jones, Padres Cy Young Winner, Dies at 75

Randy Jones, the San Diego Padres' first Cy Young Award-winning pitcher and a longtime franchise ambassador, died Tuesday at age 75, the team announced Wednesday.

The Padres described Jones as a cornerstone of the organization in a statement released on social media. "With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, the Padres mourn the passing of our beloved lefthander, Randy Jones," the statement read. "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 extended sympathies to his wife, Marie, and their family, noting that Jones remained committed to San Diego, the Padres and those closest to him. A cause of death was not disclosed.

Born in Fullerton, California, Jones emerged as a key figure for the expansion Padres in the 1970s, helping establish the team's identity during its early struggles. Nicknamed the "Junkman" for his reliance on a sharp sinkerball and precise control rather than overpowering velocity, he excelled at inducing ground balls and limiting damage. In 1975, his breakout season, Jones posted a 20-12 record with a 2.24 ERA over 285 innings, earning his first All-Star...