On Tuesday, the Detroit Tigers organization announced the passing of former pitcher and 1984 World Series champion Willie Hernández at the age of 69. Hernandez was a relief pitcher who had an illustrious career in Major League Baseball (MLB), earning numerous accolades including the American League Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Cy Young Award in 1984. He began his MLB career with the Chicago Cubs in 1977 and later joined the Philadelphia Phillies in 1983 before becoming a member of the Tigers in 1984.
Hernandez was a three-time All-Star and concluded his MLB career with the Tigers in 1989, recording an impressive 147 saves, a win-loss record of 70-63, and struck out an impressive 788 batters. The Tigers released a statement expressing their deep sadness at the news of Hernandez’s passing, while also acknowledging his contributions to their success during his time with the team. Alan Trammell, Tigers Special Assistant to the President of Baseball Operations, also issued a statement expressing his grief and fond memories of Hernandez as a teammate.