The 30 worst trades in MLB history
By David Rouben
10: Willie Hernandez to the Tigers
The trade: Detroit received Willie Hernandez and Dave Bergman
Philadelphia received Glenn Wilson and John Wockenfuss
Before the Phillies could learn how to pronounce John Wockenfuss’ last name, Willie Hernandez won the Cy Young and was voted the MVP immediately after getting traded to the Tigers. He was one of four relief pitchers to ever win the MVP as he helped the Tigers to a 104-58 season and a World Series title. It was only after Hernandez became a member of the Tigers that he achieved individual accolades, becoming a 3-time All-Star as well.
Glenn Wilson had a successful career with the Phillies, most notably in 1985 when he hit 102 RBIs, but he never had the same impact on his team as Willie Hernandez did. Meanwhile, Wockenfuss was released from the Phillies after two seasons. Dave Bergman also found success with the Tigers as he notched a career high 44 RBIs in his first season.
As it was noted before, it wasn’t until Josh Donaldson this season that a team traded for a player who subsequently won the MVP. Of course, the Hernandez deal is more noteworthy since he delivered his team a World Series later on that year.
Next: 9: Roberto Alomar to the Blue Jays