Los Angeles Dodgers legendary pitcher Fernando Valenzuela has passed away at the age of 63, marking the end of an era for one of baseball’s most beloved figures. The Dodgers announced his death on Tuesday night from a hospital in Los Angeles, though they did not release further details regarding the cause.
Valenzuela, a left-handed pitcher who captured the hearts of fans across Major League Baseball, particularly in Los Angeles, was a dominant force on the mound for 17 seasons. He spent the majority of his career with the Dodgers, playing for the team from 1980 to 1991.
His breakout year came during the strike-shortened 1981 season, when he made history as the first player ever to win both the Rookie of the Year and the Cy Young Award in the same season. Valenzuela’s stellar performance that year included a 13-7 record and a 2.48 ERA over 25 starts, cementing his place as one of the top pitchers in the league.
Born in Navojoa, Mexico, to a family of farmers, Valenzuela’s journey to baseball stardom was anything but ordinary. He excelled in the Mexican League before the Dodgers purchased his contract in 1979. His arrival in Los Angeles heralded the beginning of “Fernandomania,” a phenomenon that swept through the city and extended across the baseball world. The large Mexican immigrant community in Los Angeles quickly embraced Valenzuela, making him a cultural icon both on and off the field.
Valenzuela’s 17-year career saw him accumulate a record of 173-153 with a 3.54 ERA and 2,074 strikeouts. His remarkable achievements include six consecutive All-Star appearances from 1981 to 1986, two Silver Slugger Awards (1981 and 1983), and a Gold Glove in 1986.
He also received MVP votes four times during his career. Beyond his on-field dominance, Valenzuela’s calm demeanor and work ethic earned him the respect of players and fans alike.
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Though he spent most of his career with the Dodgers, Valenzuela also pitched for the California Angels, Baltimore Orioles, Philadelphia Phillies, San Diego Padres, and St. Louis Cardinals before retiring after the 1997 season.
Despite his illustrious career, Valenzuela did not receive enough votes to remain on the Baseball Hall of Fame ballot after his second year of eligibility in 2004. However, his legacy within the sport remains strong.
“Fernandomania” became a symbol of pride for many in Los Angeles, particularly within the Latino community. His pitching skills and cultural impact helped expand baseball’s reach, and he quickly became a fan favorite wherever he played.
In recognition of his impact on the team and the city, the Dodgers retired Valenzuela’s No. 34 jersey in 2023, forever enshrining his place in Dodger history.
Fernando Valenzuela’s contributions to the game of baseball will be remembered for generations. His unique legacy transcended the sport, making him not just a Dodgers legend, but a symbol of hope and pride for millions of fans, particularly in the Latino community.
As baseball mourns the loss of one of its icons, Valenzuela’s influence will continue to be felt for years to come.
