CLEVELAND — A staple of the Cleveland baseball scene has died, with the Cleveland Guardians announcing that legendary stadium drummer John Adams has passed away. He was 71 years old.
"It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of John Adams," the Guardians posted in a tweet on Monday morning, along with a tribute video. "John has been with us since our time at Cleveland Municipal, banging his drum for nearly 50 years, bringing joy to fans and players alike. John, you will be missed but your legacy will live on forever."
Adams first brought his drum to Cleveland Municipal Stadium on Aug. 24, 1973, and has been associated with the franchise for the past 50 seasons, leading fans in supporting the team from his seat in the bleachers while attending more than 3,700 games. Due to health issues and the COVID-19 pandemic, however, Adams hadn't been able to attend a game at Progressive Field since the 2019 season.
That, however, didn't stop the Cleveland State University alum from maintaining his connection with the franchise, as he became the 12th member to be inducted into the Guardians' Distinguished Hall of Fame last summer. Additionally, videos of Adams supporting the Guardians throughout the run to an American League Central Division title and the American League Division Championship Series from the O’Neill Healthcare Fairview Park proceeded to go viral and he was able to call "Play Ball!" via video ahead of the team's Game 1 matchup against the Tampa Bay Rays in the wild-card round.
Last September, 3News caught up with Adams, who expressed an optimistic approach to his recovery.
“It’s difficult and a lot of setbacks,” he said. “It wasn’t just one. It was a lot. But I can’t quit. That’s when you lose is when you quit. I have too much to do and too much to look forward to.”
Funeral arrangements for Adams can be found here