Willie Hernández, who had a magical 1984 season with the World Series champion Detroit Tigers, died Monday at age 69.
Hernández died at his home in Sebring, Florida. No cause of death has been given, but he had dealt with heart conditions since his retirement.
The Puerto Rican native played 13 MLB seasons, beginning with six years with the Chicago Cubs. After a season with the Philadelphia Phillies — the team that originally signed him as a teen — Hernández finished his career with the Detroit Tigers. The three-time All-Star will forever be remembered for his incredible 1984 campaign. Hernández won the AL Cy Young and MVP awards in leading the Tigers to a World Series title. He posted a 1.92 ERA with 32 saves that year.
To put that season in context, Sandy Koufax (1963) and Denny McLain (1968) are the only other players to win the MVP, Cy Young and a World Series in the same season.
“The Tigers are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Willie Hernández,” the Tigers said in a statement Tuesday. “Our thoughts are with the Hernández family, his friends, and teammates.”
The MLB world shared sympathies for Hernández’s family and memories of the former star.
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.