LA Dodger’s Legendary Icon Fernando Valenzuela Died At 63

LA Dodger’s Legendary Icon Fernando Valenzuela Died At 63Photo byJim Accordino

He inspired “Fernandomania” and was a beacon of hope and light as someone who embodied the American Dream. So it was sad to hear that LA Dodger’s legendary icon Fernando Valenzuela died on Tuesday at 63. Until recently he could be heard calling games on the Dodgers’ Spanish radio broadcasts. On October 2 the Dodgers announced that Valenzuela was stepping away from the radio booth for the remainder of the season to “focus on his health.”

Valenzuela boasted a memorable MLB career which started in 1980 but really came to life in 1981. That season ranks among the most decorated pitching years of all-time. He was the National League Rookie of the Year, the NL Cy Young Award winner, a Silver Slugger and a World Series champion. He won each of his first eight starts of the season for the Dodgers which included seven complete games and five shutouts. Further, he struck out 68 and allowed four earned runs in 72 innings for a 0.50 ERA. All that magical greatness is what led to “Fernandomania”.

The MLB celebrated the 40th anniversary of “Fernandomania” in 2021 during which time he was asked about his legacy. Fernando simply stated:

“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,” he said in Spanish.

Not only was he humble, but he broke down barriers while simultaneously building bridges. That’s partly why he was an inspiration to so many people, especially the millions of Latino fans.

LA Dodger’s Legendary Icon Fernando Valenzuela Died At 63

Below is part of the statement released by the Dodgers:

“Following his memorable career, Fernando was an outstanding ambassador for baseball. He consistently supported the growth of the game. Through the World Baseball Classic and at MLB events across his home country. As a member of the Dodger broadcasting team for more than 20 years. Fernando helped to reach a new generation of fans and cultivate their love of the game. Fernando will always remain a beloved figure in Dodger history and a special source of pride for the millions of Latino fans he inspired.

“We will honor Fernando’s memory during the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium. On behalf of Major League Baseball, [we] extend [our] deepest condolences to Fernando’s family, the Dodgers, his friends across the game, and all the loyal baseball fans of Mexico.”

Yes, our hearts and thoughts are with his family and friends. He will be missed, but never forgotten.

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