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How did Don Sutton die? Hall of Fame pitcher for Dodgers hailed a 'legend' after tragic death at 75

His son Daron Sutton announced the tragic news on social media adding that his father died in his sleep at his home in Rancho Mirage, California

Legendary baseball pitcher and longtime right-hander from Los Angeles Dodgers, Don Sutton died on the night of January 18. His son Daron Sutton announced the tragic news on social media adding that his father died in his sleep at his home in Rancho Mirage, California. Sutton was 75 at the time of his death and was suffering from cancer. 

“He worked as hard as anyone I've ever known and he treated those he encountered with great respect... and he took me to work a lot. For all these things, I am very grateful. Rest In Peace." Daron Sutton wrote in a post on Twitter, sharing several photos of his father spanning his illustrious career. 

A look at Sutton's illustrious career

Don Sutton won a total of 324 games in his Hall of Fame career, during which he spent 16 of his 23 seasons with Los Angeles Dodgers. Additionally, he had also pitched for Houston Astros, Milwaukee Brewers, Oakland Athletics and Los Angeles Angels. A four-time All-Star, Sutton’s win ranked at 14th in the history of major league baseball.

Post his retirement from the field, Sutton launched his broadcasting career in 1989, before becoming a full-time commentator for the Atlanta Braves in 1990. In 1998, he was inducted into the prestigious Hall of Fame. In a statement released by the Braves, they stated, “Don was as feared on the mound as he was beloved in the booth.” The statement also acknowledges Sutton’s unparalleled wisdom about baseball as well as his generous and humble personality. 

How did Sutton die?

In 2002, while working as a commentator, Sutton was diagnosed with kidney cancer. As a result, his left kidney had to be surgically removed. The next year, a part of his lung was removed as well. Even throughout all the hardships and battle with cancer, a determined Sutton continued his broadcasting career with elan. 

After battling with cancer for around 18 years, Sutton, unfortunately, succumbed to the deadly disease. His death comes at a time after seven legendary rankers from the Hall of Fame died last year including Lou Brock, Whitey Ford, Joe Morgan, Bob Gibson, Al Kaline, Phil Niekro and Tom Seaver.

Fans are heartbroken

Sutton’s fans and baseball enthusiasts across the country are heartbroken by Sutton’s sudden demise. They have expressed their condolences and poignant tributes to the legend on social media. 

Basketball player Blake Harris posted a detailed list of Sutton's sports achievements. "Sad news, as Dodgers pitching legend Don Sutton has passed away, according to his son.
Here's where Sutton ranks in Dodgers history: 233 wins (1st) 2,696 strikeouts (1st) 3,816 1/3 innings (1st) 52 shutouts (1st) 533 starts (1st)."

Los Angeles Dodgers also put out an obituary for their former legend. "The Los Angeles Dodgers mourn the passing of Hall of Famer and Dodger all-time great Don Sutton. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time," they posted. 

Jonathan Chadwick reminisced the times he had spent with Sutton and the meals they had shared. "An awful day for Braves Country and those that knew Don Sutton. I’m forever grateful to Don for his unwavering loyalty and generosity. I’m grateful for the many meals we shared. I’ll never forget one of my first big league trips. We had an off day in New York...," he tweeted. 

Dodgers Archive put out a 1979 video, "Here's Don Sutton's last out in a complete game five-hitter against the Giants, setting a new @Dodgers record with 50 shutouts. @TheVinScully had the call on Aug. 10, 1979."

One fan said, "Crazy how many baseball legends we’ve lost in the past few months. RIP." Another said, "Just legend after legend in short periods of time. This really sucks. Rest easy, Don."