Prospectus Q&A

Livan Hernandez

by Fernando Ruano, Jr.

The scene is one Livan Hernandez still remembers perfectly...even if it's been over six years. There he was on his knees, looking skyward and pounding his chest with both fists just seconds after the Florida Marlins had wrapped up the 1997 World Championship. A major contributor to the Marlins' title run, Hernandez deserved his share of the spotlight in posting four victories in the League Championship Series and World Series combined. Just 22 at the time, the Cuban-born right-hander became the youngest pitcher ever to win a World Series opener. His reward: World Series MVP.

But Hernandez has experienced his share of bumps in the road, posting just two winning seasons since 1998. He's been questioned over the years for his inability to work out of trouble and stay in shape. Last season marked a strong rebound season, though, as Hernandez finished 8th in the majors in Value Over Replacement Player (VORP) among all pitchers. On Tuesday he returns to Pro Player Stadium to handle Opening-Day duties against the Marlins. Montreal's staff ace recently discussed his assignment in Miami, his World Series success and his career in Cuba, among other topics of conversation, with Baseball Prospectus.

Baseball Prospectus: The thing you will never forget from 1997?

Livan Hernandez: The way the fans and the city of Miami took me in. Being a young kid in a new country I came to the ballpark everyday with the comfort that I had support from a lot of people. Looking back now I think that really helped me get through the season.

BP: The 2003 season was your best ever as a major league pitcher, and you came on strong in the second half (3.63 first-half ERA, 2.67 second-half). What was the difference?

Hernandez: Our pitching coach (Randy St. Claire) worked with me on how I was releasing the ball. Carlos Tosca (Toronto Blue Jays manager) was the one who told me that I should work on my arm angle. I had worked with Tosca in the Marlins' minor league system so I really respect his opinion. After Carlos told me I really noticed a big difference.

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