Fernando Valenzuela, a name synonymous with baseball brilliance, left an indelible mark on the Los Angeles Dodgers and Major League Baseball as a whole. Valenzuela, who passed away at the age of 63, was celebrated not just for his remarkable talent on the mound but also for the cultural impact he had on the sport, especially among Latino communities. As baseball fans mourn his passing, the Dodgers organization has announced plans to honor Valenzuela’s memory during the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium. 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."
Valenzuela's story is a classic tale of talent and determination. Born in the small town of Etchohuaquila, he began his baseball journey with the Yucatán Leones of the Mexican League as a teenager. His talent quickly caught the attention of the Dodgers, who signed him for $120,000. Valenzuela’s rise in Major League Baseball commenced when he debuted with the Dodgers at just 19 years old in 1980.
The following year, Valenzuela captured the hearts of baseball fans worldwide. He secured both the National League Rookie of the Year and Cy Young awards, boasting a stellar 13-7 record with a 2.48 ERA over 192 1/3 innings. His performance was instrumental in guiding the Dodgers to victory over the New York Yankees in the 1981 World Series. The excitement he brought to the game was further evidenced by his selection to the MLB All-Star Games from 1981 to 1986.
Valenzuela's 1986 season was equally impressive as he led the league in wins and complete games. His career also includes a noteworthy no-hitter against the St. Louis Cardinals on June 19, 1990, showcasing his enduring skill and competitive spirit.
Off the field, Valenzuela’s impact was equally profound. Jaime Jarrín, a celebrated broadcaster, summed it up, saying, "He meant so much to the Latino fan base. No other baseball player did what he did." Valenzuela connected deeply with fans, representing a beacon of hope and pride for many. His influence in broadcasting for the Dodgers for 22 seasons in a Spanish-language role further cemented his legacy within the community. Earlier in 2023, he stepped away from this role to focus on his health, having become a revered figure in the booth as well as on the field.
The Dodgers’ decision to officially retire Valenzuela's No. 34 jersey in 2023 marked a fitting tribute to his storied career with the team. Remarkably, his jersey number was never worn by another player since he left the team in 1990, a testament to his lasting legacy within the organization.
Despite his numerous accolades and achievements, Valenzuela’s path to Hall of Fame recognition proved challenging. He fell off the Hall of Fame ballot in 2004, just his second year of eligibility. However, his influence transcends statistics and awards. Valenzuela concluded his MLB career with 173 wins and 153 losses, alongside a 3.54 ERA, and he remains the all-time leader in wins and innings pitched among Mexican-born players.
Reflecting on his legacy, Valenzuela once expressed to MLB.com his desire for remembrance: "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." His words encapsulate the spirit of a man whose back-to-the-wall curveballs and signature "Fernandomania" moments brought joy and excitement to countless fans.
Fernando Valenzuela will be remembered as a pioneering figure who not only elevated the game with his exceptional skill but also bridged cultural gaps, inspiring generations of baseball enthusiasts around the world. His impending tribute at the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium promises to be a celebration of a life and career that transcended mere numbers, capturing the essence of a true baseball legend.