Former Detroit Tigers pitcher and 1984 World Series champion Willie Hernández has passed away at the age of 69, the Tigers organization confirmed on Tuesday.
Hernández, known for his role as a relief pitcher, earned the 1984 American League MVP and AL Cy Young Award honors. He began his MLB career with the Chicago Cubs in 1977, moved to the Philadelphia Phillies in 1983, and joined the Tigers in 1984.
Over his career, Hernández was a three-time All-Star and ended his MLB tenure with the Tigers in 1989. He accumulated 147 saves, a 70-63 win-loss record, 788 strikeouts, and a 3.39 ERA.
The Detroit Tigers released a statement expressing their sorrow at Hernández’s death:
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Willie Hernández. As a 13-year Major League veteran, including his final six seasons with the Tigers, Hernández was a pivotal player in the Tigers’ 1984 World Series victory. He was honored with the American League MVP and Cy Young Award that year and was selected to three AL All-Star teams during his time with Detroit. Our condolences go out to Hernández’s family, friends, and former teammates.”
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Alan Trammell, Tigers Special Assistant to the President of Baseball Operations, also shared his grief:
“Willie Hernández was a fantastic teammate, and I am deeply saddened by his passing. I will always remember celebrating with him on the mound after he secured the final out of the 1984 World Series. He will be remembered as a World Series champion. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
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