Former Detroit Tigers’ relief pitcher Guillermo “Willie” Hernández passed away on Monday night at 69 years old. Hernández, who won the American League MVP and Cy Young awards, as well as the World Series in 1984, died at his home in Sebring, Florida. His funeral services are scheduled to be held in Aguada, Puerto Rico where Hernández was born in 1954. The loss of Hernández has deeply saddened the Tigers, as confirmed in their statement on Tuesday. He joins Sandy Koufax and Denny McLain as one of three players to win the MVP, Cy Young and World Series in the same season in the history of baseball, and is considered one of the 10 Major League Baseball players to win the MVP and Cy Young in the same season. The Tigers had traded for Hernández in 1984 whose success on the team was celebrated by his teammates. After six seasons with the team, Hernández finished his 13-year MLB career with 778 strikeouts. He left behind a great legacy and will be remembered fondly by his family and the Tiger community. For more Tigers news, follow @EvanPetzold on Twitter or listen to the free “Days of Roar” podcast.
Remembering Detroit Tigers Legend: 1984 AL MVP Willie Hernandez Passes Away at 69
