The Detroit Tigers announced on Tuesday the passing of former pitcher and 1984 World Series champion, Willie Hernandez, at the age of 69. Hernandez was a relief pitcher who won numerous awards during his MLB career, including the American League MVP and Cy Young Award in 1984.
Hernandez began his career with the Chicago Cubs in 1977 before joining the Philadelphia Phillies in 1983. It was during his time with the Tigers from 1984 to 1989 that he became a key member of the team’s championship run in 1984. During his six seasons in Detroit, Hernandez was a three-time All-Star and recorded an impressive statistic of 147 saves, a win-loss record of 70-63, 788 strikeouts and an ERA of 3.39.
The Tigers released a statement expressing their deep sadness over Hernandez’s passing and honoring his contributions to the team’s success. Alan Trammell, Tigers Special Assistant to the President of Baseball Operations also released a statement sharing memories of Hernandez as a teammate and expressing his sorrow over his loss.