Remembering Fernando Valenzuela: A Legendary Dodger's Lasting Impact
Fernando Valenzuela, the legendary Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher whose legacy transcends baseball, has passed away at the age of 63. His death was announced by the Dodgers organization on a Tuesday, leaving a void in the hearts of fans and in the annals of baseball history.
The Mexican-born pitcher rose from humble beginnings in the town of Etchohuaquila, eventually becoming a symbol of excellence and a source of pride for the Latino community. His journey began with the Yucatán Leones of the Mexican League, where a talent that would capture the world’s attention first shone. The Dodgers, recognizing his potential, signed the young pitcher for $120,000. Little did they know then that they were acquiring not just his arm, but an icon.
Valenzuela made his Major League Baseball debut with the Dodgers in 1980 at just 19 years old. A year later, he captivated the baseball world with his remarkable performances, earning both the National League Rookie of the Year and Cy Young awards in 1981. During that stellar season, he achieved a 13-7 record with a 2.48 ERA over 192 1/3 innings, mesmerizing fans with his commanding presence on the mound.
His prowess was critical in the Dodgers’ journey to win the World Series that year, triumphing over the New York Yankees. The excitement surrounding Valenzuela was no accident; it was the result of skilled pitching and an endearing charisma that resonated deeply with fans. Such was his impact that from 1981 to 1986, he was a consistent figure in the MLB All-Star Games, highlighting his sustained brilliance during that period. In 1986, he led the league in wins and complete games, further cementing his status as a dominant force in baseball.
One of the highlights of Valenzuela's career came on June 19, 1990, when he pitched a no-hitter against the St. Louis Cardinals. This remarkable achievement was yet another testament to his incredible skill and determination, traits that he consistently showcased throughout his career.
Despite retiring with an impressive MLB career record of 173-153 and a 3.54 ERA, Fernando Valenzuela's influence extended far beyond his statistical accomplishments. He stands as the all-time leader in wins and innings pitched among Mexican-born players, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and serving as an inspiration to countless aspiring athletes from Latin America.
Valenzuela's contributions to the Dodgers were not confined to his exploits on the field. After stepping away from playing, he transitioned to the broadcast booth, where he brought games to life in Spanish for 22 seasons. His voice became as iconic as his wind-up, creating a bridge between the team and its Latino fan base, one that Jaime Jarrín, a celebrated broadcaster, noted: “No other baseball player did what he did.”
Earlier in 2023, Valenzuela retired from his broadcasting role to focus on his health, bringing to an end another significant chapter in his long-standing relationship with the Dodgers. In honor of his remarkable contributions, the Dodgers officially retired his No. 34 jersey in the same year. The number, which had not been worn since he left the team in 1990, found its rightful place, symbolizing an everlasting respect and admiration from the organization and its fans.
Despite these honors and achievements, Valenzuela’s journey with the Hall of Fame was brief. He fell off the Hall of Fame ballot in 2004, his second year of eligibility, a nod to the sometimes unpredictable nature of recognition in the sport. Yet, his influence remains undiminished, and as MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed, “Fernando Valenzuela was one of the most impactful players of his generation.”
Recognizing his contributions to the sport and the community, the Dodgers plan to honor Fernando Valenzuela during the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium, ensuring his legacy is celebrated on one of baseball’s grandest stages. As Valenzuela once shared with MLB.com, “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.” It’s a sentiment that will undoubtedly remain etched in the memory of those who had the privilege of witnessing his extraordinary career.