John Stearns died of cancer on September 15, 2022, at age 71 in Denver, Colorado, United States.
In July 2022, Stearns was diagnosed with stage IV prostate cancer.
The American former professional baseball catcher and coach, John Hardin Stearns was born on August 21, 1951, in Denver to Carle and Joan Stearns. He had three siblings; Bill Stearns, Rick Stearns and Carla Stearns.
John Stearns graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in Denver. He was a three-sport star, leading his football and baseball teams to state championships in 1967.
Stearns was a two-sport star at the University of Colorado. He made 16 interceptions in 1972, which as of 2017 was still the single-season record at the university. He caught for the baseball team. Stearns led the NCAA with 15 home runs during his senior year.
In the 1973 NFL draft, Stearns was selected by the Buffalo Bills as a defensive back in the 17th round. In the MLB draft the same year, the Philadelphia Phillies made him the second overall pick after pitcher David Clyde. He decided to pursue baseball and signed a contract with the Phillies on June 15, 1973.
He played in Major League Baseball for the New York Mets from 1975 to 1984 after playing a single game for the Philadelphia Phillies in 1974.
Stearns was a four-time MLB All-Star but struggled with injuries in the latter part of his career.
Following his retirement as a player, Stearns served as a coach for the New York Yankees, Baltimore Orioles, and New York Mets of MLB, as well as in Minor League Baseball.
John Stearns and his wife, Martha Jo had a son, named Justin Stearns.