The Detroit Tigers announced on Tuesday that former pitcher and 1984 World Series champion Willie Hernández had passed away at the age of 69. Hernández was a relief pitcher who won the American League MVP and Cy Young Award in 1984, during his time with the Tigers. He began his Major League Baseball (MLB) career with the Chicago Cubs in 1977 and later joined the Philadelphia Phillies in 1983 before joining the Tigers in 1984. During his six seasons with the Tigers, he was a three-time All-Star and recorded a total of 147 saves, a win-loss record of 70-63, struck out 788 batters, and had an ERA of 3.39.

The Tigers released a statement expressing their deep sadness over Hernández’s death, stating that he was a vital member of their team during their championship season in 1984. In addition to winning numerous awards that year, he also played an important role in leading the team to victory in the World Series. Trammell, Special Assistant to the President of Baseball Operations for the Tigers, also shared his sorrow over Hernández’s passing and fond memories of him as a teammate.