The Detroit Tigers announced on Tuesday the passing of former pitcher and 1984 World Series champion Willie Hernández at the age of 69. Hernández, a relief pitcher, was the American League MVP and Cy Young Award winner that year. He began his MLB career with the Chicago Cubs in 1977 and later joined the Philadelphia Phillies in 1983 before eventually joining the Tigers in 1984.

During his six seasons with the Tigers, Hernández was a three-time All-Star and recorded 147 saves, a 70-63 win-loss record, 788 strikeouts, and a 3.39 ERA. He was also selected to three All-Star teams during his time with the team.

The Tigers organization released a statement expressing their deep sadness at the news of Hernández’s passing, noting that he was a key member of their 1984 World Series championship team and earned numerous awards that season. Alan Trammell, Tigers Special Assistant to the President of Baseball Operations, also released a statement expressing his sorrow and fond memories of Hernández as a teammate.