The Mexican pitcher who revolutionized baseball in Los Angeles and inspired a cultural phenomenon has left an indelible mark on the sport's history.
According to Breitbart News, Fernando Valenzuela, the legendary Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher who captured hearts during the memorable 1981 season, died Tuesday in Los Angeles at age 63. The cause of death was not disclosed.
The Dodgers organization announced the passing of the iconic left-hander who became a symbol of excellence and inspiration for millions of fans, particularly in the Latino community.
Valenzuela's remarkable journey began with his MLB debut for the Dodgers in 1980, leading to an extraordinary career spanning multiple teams and achievements that would forever change the landscape of baseball.
The Mexican native's most celebrated season came in 1981, when he dominated the National League with 25 starts, maintaining a 2.48 ERA and securing a league-leading 180 strikeouts. His unique pitching style became his trademark, characterized by a distinctive skyward glance at the peak of his windup and his mastery of the rarely-used screwball.
During that phenomenal rookie season, Valenzuela accomplished the unprecedented feat of recording 11 complete games and eight shutouts, leading the major leagues in the latter category.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred reflected on Valenzuela's significance to the sport, stating:
With his distinctive pitching style, the Dodgers left-hander's rookie season generated so much excitement in the U.S. and his native Mexico that it became commonly referred to as 'Fernandomania.' His 1981 season ranks among the most decorated pitching years of all-time as Fernando was the National League Rookie of the Year, the NL Cy Young Award winner, a Silver Slugger and a World Series champion.
The Dodgers' president and CEO Stan Kasten added that Valenzuela belongs on the "Mount Rushmore of franchise heroes," acknowledging his transformative impact on the team's history.
Throughout his 17-year MLB career, Valenzuela showcased his talents across multiple teams, including stints with the Baltimore Orioles, Philadelphia Phillies, San Diego Padres, California Angels, and St. Louis Cardinals.
His tenure with the Dodgers lasted 11 seasons, during which he became one of the most beloved figures in Los Angeles sports history. The phenomenon known as "Fernandomania" transcended baseball, becoming a cultural movement that united communities.
Valenzuela's consistency and durability were evident in his career statistics, which include 173 wins, 153 losses, and a respectable 3.54 ERA across 453 appearances.
He also joined the Dodgers' radio commentary team in 2003 and later worked as a color commentator for SportsNet LA, helping cultivate a new generation of baseball fans.
Fernando Valenzuela's legacy encompasses his remarkable achievements on the field, his role in breaking cultural barriers, and his continued dedication to baseball after his playing career. The "Fernandomania" phenomenon he inspired changed the face of baseball forever. His contributions as a broadcaster and coach helped shape the modern game. The timing of his passing, just before a World Series featuring his beloved Dodgers, adds a touching dimension to his remarkable story.
