John Adams was a Cleveland Indians (renamed the Guardians in 2021) superfan known for playing the bass drum at home games for decades.
- Died: January 30, 2023 (Who else died on January 30?)
- Details of death: Died in Cleveland after suffering several health issues at the age of 71.
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A superfan for 50 years
Adams first brought a bass drum – one he bought at a garage sale after having played the bass drum in high school band – to Cleveland Stadium in 1973. There was already a fan tradition of banging on seats during exciting moments, and he wanted to add to the clamor. He immediately caught the attention of other fans as well as the players, and he was interviewed for a local newspaper that same day. Adams continued bringing his drum as he attended almost every home game for five decades, only stopping when the COVID-19 pandemic and, later, his own health issues made it impossible for him to attend. He became a Cleveland institution, drumming as the players took the field and in other key moments throughout the game. The team honored him by twice inviting him to take place in the ceremonial first pitch – once, he hit the ball with his drum after it was pitched by a former player. The team gave out Adams bobblehead dolls in 2006, and he was inducted into their Hall of Fame.
Notable quote
“When you go to the ballpark, it’s just like a magical land. You’re sitting next to your new best friend and you can solve half of the world’s problems.” —from a 2013 interview for MLB.com
Tributes to John Adams
Full obituary: Cleveland.com
