Fernando Valenzuela, the Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher and inimitable Spanish-language broadcaster, died on Tuesday at the age of 63, the team announced. Valenzuela, a trailblazer in baseball, played 17 seasons in the big leagues with the Dodgers, for whom he pitched and helped lead to a World Series title in 1981.
Born in Mexico, this pitcher won both the Rookie of the Year and Cy Young awards in the same season, a first and foremost in sports. His performances in the early years of the 1980s captured the hearts of baseball fans and hailed "Fernandomania." This hallowed into place his status as one of the game's great players.
Fernando Valenzuela Loves Dodgers Until the End
Recently, Valenzuela had stepped away from his role as the Dodgers' Spanish-language broadcaster to focus on health. The team announced his departure from the booth early last September, days after he left mid-game during a matchup against the San Diego Padres, according to The New York Post.
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Dodgers great Fernando Valenzuela.
— MLB (@MLB) October 23, 2024
“Fernandomania” swept through baseball in 1981 when the 20-year old rookie sensation began the season 8-0 with a 0.50 ERA. The lefthander capped off his incredible year by winning both the… pic.twitter.com/a28H5Cptox
Fans hoped for his return next season, but those hopes were dashed with news of his passing.
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A Hearty Tribute from Dodgers Nation
The Dodgers organization, from the top brass down to the fans, is mourning the Beloved Legend's loss. Major League Baseball posted this heartfelt message, commending Valenzuela's immeasurable contributions to the game and the life he left on sports in general.
"He is one of the most influential Dodgers ever and belongs on the Mount Rushmore of franchise heroes. He galvanized the fan base with the 'Fernandomania' season of 1981 and has remained close to our hearts ever since, not only as a player but also as a broadcaster. He has left us all too soon," team president and CEO Stan Kasten said via TMZ.
Valenzuela, a six-time All-Star, is the Mexican-born pitcher atop the record books in victories (173) and strikeouts (2,074) in major league baseball history. In 2023, the Dodgers honored his legacy by retiring his No. 34 jersey, making sure neither the team nor the game forgets the contribution.
Fernando's Legacy Will Be Remembered Forever
Fernando Valenzuela's legacy in baseball goes far beyond an amazing feat of what is possible in the game. Most importantly, it inspires love and admiration among fans from all corners of the world.
He leaves behind his wife, Linda, and four children: Fernando Jr., Ricardo, Linda, and Maria Fernanda; and seven grandchildren. A part of him will be deeply missed, but his spirit will remind generations of baseball players and fans.
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