Cleveland drummer, baseball fan John Adams dies at 71

CLEVELAND — John Adams, who banged a drum during baseball games in the grandstands of Cleveland for five decades, has died. He was 71.

The Guardians announced Adams’ death on Monday.

Adams first lugged a bass drum he bought for $25 at a flea market to a game at Municipal Stadium during the 1973 season. He hit a steady hit when the home team was batting and eventually became a Cleveland sports icon.

“For nearly five decades, the beat of John’s drum was the heartbeat of baseball here in Cleveland,” said Bob DiBiasio, Guardians senior vice president of public affairs. “We are all saddened by John’s death. His dedication, dedication and passion for our franchise, at both Cleveland Stadium and Progressive Field, was second to none. John will always be a member of our team.”

Adams’ health had deteriorated in recent seasons. Because he was no longer able to attend games, he was honored by the team last season with a replica bronze sculpture of his drum, which has a permanent place in the team’s Heritage Park area of ​​Progressive Field.

There is also a plaque on the wall next to his seat and above the top row of the stands in left field.

A native of Parma, Ohio, Adams began performing as a drummer with the team on August 24, 1973 when Cleveland was hosting the Texas Rangers. He was a regular season fixture, appearing in three All-Star games, three World Series, and was there the night Len Barker fielded a perfect game for Cleveland in 1981.

When Adams was unable to attend the 2021 home opener, drummer Patrick Carney of Akron’s rock duo The Black Keys stepped in.

Carney was thrilled to be filling in for Adams.

“I’m thrilled to be here for John,” Carney told The Associated Press before Cleveland hosted Kansas City that day. “It’s the best seat in the house.”