The Detroit Tigers organization confirmed on Tuesday the passing of former pitcher Willie Hernandez at the age of 69. Hernandez, a relief pitcher, was a key member of the Tigers team that won the World Series in 1984, and he was also named American League MVP and Cy Young Award winner that season.
Before joining the Tigers in 1984, Hernandez began his MLB career with the Chicago Cubs in 1977 and later played for the Philadelphia Phillies in 1983. During his six seasons with the Tigers, Hernandez was a three-time All-Star and finished his MLB career with a record of 70-63 win-loss record, 788 strikeouts and an ERA of 3.39.
The Detroit Tigers released a statement expressing deep sadness at the news of Hernandez’s passing. Alan Trammell, special assistant to the president of baseball operations also released a statement expressing his grief and fond memories of Hernandez as a teammate.