Remembering Fernando Valenzuela: A Legacy Etched in Baseball History
Fernando Valenzuela, whose legendary career as a Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher captivated baseball fans worldwide, has left an indelible mark on the sport. As the baseball community mourns his passing at the age of 63, announced by the Dodgers on a solemn Tuesday, the memories of his monumental achievements continue to inspire.
Valenzuela began his illustrious Major League Baseball career as a 19-year-old prodigy in 1980 with the Dodgers. His breakout season in 1981 not only earned him the National League Rookie of the Year but also the prestigious Cy Young Award. These accolades were testament to a record that boasted 13 wins, 7 losses, and a remarkable 2.48 earned run average over 192 1/3 innings – a season that showcased his formidable talent and unyielding spirit.
His prowess on the mound continued to shine in the postseason, where he played an instrumental role in leading the Dodgers to triumph over the New York Yankees in the World Series. This victory was not merely an athletic achievement; it was a cultural moment that had a profound impact on the Latino fan base, as celebrated broadcaster Jaime Jarrín noted, "He meant so much to the Latino fan base. No other baseball player did what he did."
Valenzuela’s career was replete with milestones, including his selection to the MLB All-Star Games six consecutive times from 1981 to 1986. In 1986, he led the league in wins and complete games, embodying the persistence and excellence that defined his career. A highlight from this period was his no-hitter against the St. Louis Cardinals on June 19, 1990, a feat that solidified his status as one of the most impactful players of his generation—an accolade underscored by MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred.
Born in the small town of Etchohuaquila, Valenzuela's journey to baseball stardom began with the Yucatán Leones of the Mexican League. His talents caught the attention of the Dodgers, who signed him for $120,000, a decision that would eventually yield storied success and elevate Valenzuela’s name in the realm of baseball legends.
Throughout his Major League career, Valenzuela amassed a record of 173 wins, 153 losses, and a 3.54 ERA. Not only did he become the all-time leader in wins and innings pitched among Mexican-born players, but he also remained a beloved figure within the Dodgers organization and beyond. His contributions extended beyond the field, as he devoted 22 seasons to the Spanish language broadcast booth for the Dodgers, sharing his passion and insights with fans. However, earlier in 2023, he chose to step away from broadcasting to prioritize his health.
The Dodgers' decision to officially retire his No. 34 jersey in 2023 was a fitting tribute to his remarkable career and enduring influence. Notably, the number, which had remained unworn since his departure from the team in 1990, now stands as a symbol of his legacy in the Dodgers’ pantheon.
Despite falling off the Hall of Fame ballot in 2004, just his second year of eligibility, Valenzuela’s impact on the sport is not defined by such accolades alone. His legacy is woven into the very fabric of baseball history, as well as the hearts of fans who witnessed his extraordinary dedication and skill.
Fernando Valenzuela once expressed his hopes for how he would be remembered, saying, "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." These words echo through time, capturing the essence of a player who understood the power of the game to bring joy and unite communities.
As plans unfold to honor Valenzuela during the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium, it is clear that his legacy will continue to inspire, not only as a towering figure in baseball but as a beloved icon who transcended the sport itself.