Los Angeles Dodgers icon Fernando Valenzuela passed away Tuesday night, leaving the baseball world in mourning. The Mexican-born pitcher and beloved broadcaster was 63.
Valenzuela’s legacy extends far beyond his impressive 17-season MLB career. He helped the Dodgers win the 1981 World Series against the New York Yankees and made history as the first player to win Rookie of the Year and Cy Young in the same season.
Tributes poured in from the Dodgers organization and fans. Team president Stan Kasten described Valenzuela as “one of the most influential Dodgers ever” who “galvanized the fan base” with his incredible 1981 season, dubbed “Fernandomania.”
The Los Angeles Dodgers mourn the passing of legendary pitcher Fernando Valenzuela. pic.twitter.com/MXeBlDzDWJ
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 23, 2024
Major League Baseball also paid respects, saying they are “deeply saddened” by Valenzuela’s passing.
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Dodgers great Fernando Valenzuela.
“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
— MLB (@MLB) October 23, 2024
Valenzuela’s impact on the sport was immense. A six-time All-Star, he holds records for most wins (173) and strikeouts (2,074) by a Mexican-born pitcher.
Off the field, Valenzuela spent 22 years as a Spanish language broadcaster for the Dodgers, earning the admiration of fans worldwide. His number 34 jersey was retired by the Dodgers in 2023.
He is survived by his wife Linda, four children, and seven grandchildren.
The Dodgers, set to face the Yankees in the World Series, will now honor Valenzuela’s memory. Fans and fellow athletes alike will deeply miss the legendary pitcher and broadcaster.
Rest in peace, Fernando Valenzuela.
