Fernando Valenzuela, the enduring Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher turned crew Spanish broadcaster, has died, the crew introduced Tuesday night time.
The legend performed 17 seasons in MLB … with a lot of his tenure spent with the Dodgers, who he helped to win a World Sequence in 1981, when L.A. defeated the New York Yankees.
The Los Angeles Dodgers mourn the passing of legendary pitcher Fernando Valenzuela. pic.twitter.com/MXeBlDzDWJ
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 23, 2024
@Dodgers
The Mexico-born celebrity grew to become the primary participant to win the Rookie of the Yr and Cy Younger in the identical season! An almost unmatchable feat.
As TMZ Sports activities beforehand reported … earlier this month, the Dodgers introduced Fernando wouldn’t return to his function with the crew’s Spanish broadcast crew this season, saying he was taking time to give attention to his well being.
The crew made the stunning announcement a number of days after he abruptly left the mic on September 24 towards the San Diego Padres.
However, regardless of what gave the impression of a probably critical medical scenario, there was discuss Fernando can be again subsequent season … which was music to the ears of Dodgers followers.
Sadly, Fernando will now have to observe from up above … as his beloved crew will face the Yankees within the World Sequence beginning Friday.
With the information breaking, Dodgers nation is crushed … from crew execs to the loyal fanbase.
“He is among the most influential Dodgers ever and belongs on the Mount Rushmore of franchise heroes. He galvanized the fan base with the ‘Fernandomania’ season of 1981 and has remained near our hearts ever since, not solely as a participant but additionally as a broadcaster. He has left us all too quickly,” crew president and CEO Stan Kasten stated.
We’re deeply saddened to listen to of the passing of former Dodgers nice Fernando Valenzuela.
“Fernandomania” swept by baseball in 1981 when the 20-year outdated rookie sensation started the season 8-0 with a 0.50 ERA. The lefthander capped off his unimaginable yr by successful each the… pic.twitter.com/a28H5Cptox
— MLB (@MLB) October 23, 2024
@MLB
Main League baseball additionally issued an announcement, saying, partially … “We’re deeply saddened to listen to of the passing of former Dodgers nice Fernando Valenzuela.”
Valenzuela was a 6-time All-Star, and has essentially the most wins (173) and strikeouts (2,074) of any Mexican-born pitcher. He spent the final 22 years as a Spanish language broadcaster for the Dodgers, who retired his No. 34 in 2023.
Whilst a younger man, he was a star. “Fernandomania” swept by baseball in 1981 when the 20-year-old rookie sensation started the season 8-0 with a 0.50 ERA.
Fernando was 63 … and is survived by his spouse Linda and 4 kids, Fernando Jr., Ricardo, Linda and Maria Fernanda, and 7 grandchildren.
R.I.P.
