LOS ANGELES – Dodgers legend Fernando Valenzuela passed away at the age of 63 after battling health issues in the hospital. Valenzuela, known for igniting “Fernandomania” in 1981, received tributes from teammates, fans, and league officials for his impact on the game and the Latino community. He was a groundbreaking figure for Mexican-American fans and the first player to win both the Rookie of the Year and Cy Young awards in the same season.
Valenzuela’s baseball journey began in Navajoa, Mexico, where he caught the eye of a scout and was signed by the Dodgers in 1979. His remarkable debut in the majors in 1981 included a 35-inning scoreless streak, World Series victory, and cultural phenomenon surrounding his pitching style and personality. Valenzuela’s popularity transcended borders and he was celebrated by millions of fans for his contributions on and off the field.
After retiring from baseball, Valenzuela continued his involvement in the sport as a broadcaster, coach, and team owner. He was inducted into the Mexican Professional Baseball Hall of Fame and became a U.S. citizen in 2015. Valenzuela’s impact on baseball, particularly among the Latino community, was recognized by MLB commissioner Rob Manfred, who praised him as one of the most influential players of his generation.
Valenzuela’s legacy extends beyond his pitching achievements, as he inspired a new generation of fans and changed the demographics of the Dodger fan base. His number 34 jersey was retired by the team in 2023, solidifying his place in franchise history. Valenzuela’s family, including his wife, children, and grandchildren, continue to honor his memory and contributions to the game he loved.
Source
Photo credit www.dailynews.com