Randy Jones Dies at 75: Exploring San Diego Padres Legend’s Throat Cancer Journey

Randy Jones, a beloved San Diego Padres legend and the first-ever Cy Young Award winner from the team, passed away on November 18, 2025, at the age of 75. Before his death, Jones had been open about his battle with throat cancer, diagnosed in 2016, which he overcame by 2017 after successful treatment. His fight with cancer marked a difficult chapter late in his life, but it did not overshadow his incredible legacy as a major league pitcher and community figure.

Randy Jones’ Cause of Death

The Padres announced Jones’s death on November 19, 2025, in a heartfelt statement, calling him a “cornerstone” of their franchise. However, no specific cause of death has been disclosed by the team or his family. This leaves open many questions, especially in light of his earlier cancer diagnosis.

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. The CY Young Award winner, Padres Hall of Famer, and tremendous community ambassador, was a giant in our lives and will be greatly… pic.twitter.com/AwXWb92aCD

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) November 19, 2025

While Jones survived a throat cancer diagnosis in 2016, his cancer journey appears to be separate from his cause of death. He openly linked that diagnosis to his long-term habits of chewing tobacco and smoking cigars. After treatment (including radiation), he was declared cancer-free around 2017–2018, according to reports. 

Because the family and team have chosen not to release any medical details or specify the cause, there’s no confirmation that his throat cancer returned, or that it contributed directly to his death. 

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Randy Jones’ Journey with Throat Cancer

Back in November 2016, Jones revealed that doctors had diagnosed him with throat cancer. He began a rigorous treatment plan that included radiation and chemotherapy. In interviews, he acknowledged the likely cause: years of chewing tobacco during his playing days, plus a long habit of smoking cigars. 

Doctors told him that his cancer was “low risk,” having been caught early and not yet spreading. By 2018, he shared some uplifting news: he was cancer-free, a milestone he and his supporters celebrated widely. According to data referenced by WHO partners, head and neck cancers (which include many throat cancers) affect roughly 550,000 people globally each year, leading to about 300,000 deaths annually. Key risk factors include tobacco use, alcohol consumption, poor oral hygiene, and high-risk HPV infection.

Who Was Randy Jones?

Randy Jones was not just any pitcher — he was the first Cy Young Award winner in Padres history. He played for the Padres from 1973 to 1980 before finishing his career with the New York Mets in 1982. 

On the mound, he was known for his clever, sinker-heavy style rather than overpowering speed. In his peak years (1975–76), he logged massive innings, complete games, and shutouts — earning his place in the hearts of fans. After retiring, Jones stayed deeply connected to San Diego. He became a beloved ambassador for the Padres. He even had a BBQ stand named after him at former Qualcomm Stadium, later moving it to Petco Park. His No. 35 jersey was retired by the team, and he was inducted into the Padres Hall of Fame in 1999.

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Conclusion

Randy Jones’s death marks the end of an era for San Diego baseball. His courageous battle with throat cancer, his stellar baseball career, and his heart for the community make him a legend remembered with respect and affection. While his passing leaves a void, his legacy continues to inspire players and fans alike for generations to come.