CLEVELAND — John Adams, the Cleveland baseball fan who banged his drum to support the team for nearly 50 years, died at 71, the Cleveland Guardians confirmed Monday.

“For nearly five decades, the beat of John’s drum was the heartbeat of baseball here in Cleveland,” said Guardians Senior Vice President of Public Affairs Bob DiBiasio in a press release. “We are all saddened by John’s passing. His dedication, commitment and passion for our franchise, at both Cleveland Stadium and Progressive Field, was unmatched. John will forever remain a member of our team.”

Adams attended more than 3,500 games and drummed at each one to rally on the team. According to the Guardians, he attended three All-Star Games, 11 playoff series, three World Series and Len Barker's perfect game.

Over the past few seasons, Adams had to hang up his mallets for health reasons and could not attend games in person. To honor his dedication to the team, the Cleveland Guardians commissioned a bronze replica of his drum attached to his actual bleacher seat, now on display at Progressive Field. He was also inducted into the Cleveland Guardians Distinguished Hall of Fame.

“I do it for the players. I love the organization. It’s my way of drumming up enthusiasm for the team,” Adams said to the Cleveland Guardians.

Adams is a native of Cleveland and graduated from Parma High School in 1969, according to the MLB. He drummed his first game on Aug. 24, 1973 when Cleveland beat the Rangers, 11-5.