Fernando Valenzuela, the iconic left-handed pitcher who captivated baseball fans with his prowess on the mound and charming personality, passed away at the age of 63. The Los Angeles Dodgers made the somber announcement of Valenzuela's death on a Tuesday, marking the end of an era for one of the most beloved figures in baseball history.
A Meteoric Rise
Fernando Valenzuela burst onto the Major League Baseball scene as a 19-year-old rookie in 1980 with the Los Angeles Dodgers. His extraordinary debut season, however, came in 1981, a year that cemented his legacy in the annals of the sport. Valenzuela astounded the baseball world, capturing both the National League Rookie of the Year and the Cy Young Award. The young pitcher notched a 13-7 record with a 2.48 ERA over 192 1/3 innings, leading the Dodgers to a triumphant World Series victory against the powerhouse New York Yankees.
Valenzuela's journey with the Dodgers was marked by several accolades. He was a fixture in the MLB All-Star Games for six consecutive seasons from 1981 to 1986. 1986 saw him leading the league in wins and complete games, further attesting to his skills and endurance on the mound. Perhaps one of his most memorable moments came on June 19, 1990, when Valenzuela etched his name in history books once again by pitching a no-hitter against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Honoring a Legacy
Reflecting on his career, Dodgers legend Jaime Jarrín, acclaimed broadcaster and contemporary of Valenzuela, captured his significance, saying, "He meant so much to the Latino fan base. No other baseball player did what he did." Valenzuela's impact transcended the game, resonating deeply with fans, especially within the Latino community.
In a celebration of his life and career, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred stated, "Fernando Valenzuela was one of the most impactful players of his generation... We will honor Fernando's memory during the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium." This tribute will provide fans an opportunity to reflect on Valenzuela’s storied career and his lasting impact on the game.
Early Beginnings and Continued Influence
Born in Etchohuaquila, Mexico, Fernando Valenzuela's affinity for baseball began at a young age. He played for the Yucatán Leones in the Mexican League as a teenager, showcasing his talent and paving his path to international acclaim. The Los Angeles Dodgers recognized his potential, signing him for $120,000, a decision that would shape the team's history for years to come.
His MLB career concluded with an impressive record of 173 wins and 153 losses and a 3.54 ERA. Valenzuela remains the all-time leader in wins and innings pitched among Mexican-born players, a testament to his skill, determination, and influence.
Beyond his playing days, Valenzuela's contribution to baseball continued in the Spanish language broadcast booth for the Dodgers, a role he held for 22 seasons. However, earlier in 2023, he made the difficult decision to step away from his broadcasting duties to focus on his health.
A Lasting Tribute
Fernando Valenzuela's legacy was immortalized in August 2023 when the Dodgers officially retired his jersey number, 34. The cherished number, unworn since Valenzuela left the team in 1990, serves as a symbolic gesture honoring his lasting impact on the Dodgers and baseball itself.
Despite his storied career, Valenzuela fell off the Hall of Fame ballot in 2004, in just his second year of eligibility. Nonetheless, his influence on the game remains undiminished, with fans and contemporaries alike continuing to celebrate his contributions and memories.
Valenzuela once expressed his humble hope for his legacy, stating, "It would be really great if they remembered me as someone who always tried his best to always give them a good show, so that they could have fun with this beautiful game." As fans look forward to the special tribute at Dodger Stadium, it is evident that Valenzuela's wish has been fulfilled. His talent, spirit, and love for the game of baseball will remain etched in the hearts of fans around the world.