In a stunning turn of events, former Detroit Tigers pitcher Willie Hernandez has passed away at the age of 69. Hernandez played a crucial role in helping the Tigers win the 1984 World Series, and his breakout season that year earned him both the American League MVP and Cy Young Awards.
During his time with the Tigers, Hernandez served as the team’s closer and appeared in 80 games, recording an impressive 32 saves and a career-high 112 strikeouts in 140.1 innings. He also posted a career-best earned run average of 1.92 and completed 68 games.
The Tigers expressed their deepest condolences over Hernandez’s passing, noting his integral role in their 1984 World Series victory and his MVP and Cy Young honors. Alan Trammell, a former teammate of Hernandez, remembered him fondly as a great teammate and expressed his sadness at the news of his departure.
Hernandez began his career with the Chicago Cubs before being traded to the Philadelphia Phillies prior to joining the Tigers in 1984. He retired from baseball at age 34 after spending over six seasons with various teams.
Hernandez will be remembered for his vital contribution to the Tigers’ championship run in 1984, as well as his MVP and Cy Young awards that year. His legacy will live on as one of only three relievers in MLB history to win both awards in the same season. This story is still developing, and updates will be provided as they become available.