In 1984, former Detroit Tigers pitcher Willie Hernández played a pivotal role in helping the team win the World Series. That year, he won both the American League MVP and Cy Young Awards, marking the beginning of a run of three consecutive All-Star appearances. Serving as the Tigers’ closer that season, Hernández appeared in 80 games, notching 32 saves and a career-high 112 strikeouts in 140.1 innings. He also achieved a career-best 1.92 earned-run average and finished 68 games.

Hernández’s impact on the Tigers was undeniable, and his legacy will live on for years to come. The team expressed their deep sadness over his passing at the age of 69 in a statement, highlighting his integral role in their 1984 World Series victory as well as his recognition with MVP and Cy Young honors. Alan Trammell, Hernandez’s former teammate, remembered him as a great teammate and expressed his sorrow over the news of his passing.

Hernandez joined the Tigers in 1984 and finished his career in 1989 at the age of 34. Before joining the Tigers, he spent six-plus seasons with the Chicago Cubs before being traded to the Philadelphia Phillies. Hernandez will be remembered for his vital contribution to the Tigers’ world championship win in 1984, where he earned 78% of the MVP votes. He is also one of just three relievers in MLB history to win both the MVP and Cy Young Awards in the same season. This story is still developing, and updates will be provided as they become available.