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.”
Forever a champion.
Our thoughts are with the family, friends and teammates of former Tigers reliever Guillermo “Willie” Hernández. pic.twitter.com/ccsblKuTJp— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) November 21, 2023
The MLB world shared sympathies for Hernández’s family and memories of the former star.
What a great player for the Tigers in the magical ‘84 season! Special spot for Willie in Detroit sports history. Prayers for the Hernandez family. 🙏
— ApolloByThe Bay (@Bingo_Johnnie) November 21, 2023
Rest in peace Guillermo.
— Kevin Cluff (@Real_KevinCluff) November 21, 2023
He was the man. No kidding, dude threw some filth in his day.
— Fr. Joseph Krupp (@Joeinblack) November 21, 2023
That man was so elite for us in ‘84. His efforts and accomplishments will live forever. Rest easy, Willie.
— Michigan Dave (@snotzzz73) November 21, 2023
Would not have won the ’84 World Series without him.
R.I.P.— Alex Lions #1 Fan (@AlexHook1231) November 21, 2023
AL Cy Young and MVP in 1984…Sure wish he could have made it to the 40th anniversary celebrations next season…
Thoughts and prayers are with Willie and his family. Gone far too young…..— mark kaline (@MarkKaline) November 21, 2023
RIP “Willie”the heavenly team is waiting for you to come in from the bullpen.
— Don Liebau (@Nukidz13) November 21, 2023