Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Network. On October 23, 1981 in Los Angeles, the Dodgers found themselves down two games to none against the Yankees in the World Series. They needed a win at Dodger Stadium to keep their hopes alive. Enter Fernando Valenzuela, the 20-year-old Mexican southpaw who had taken the baseball world by storm with his sensational pitching. Valenzuela threw a gritty 147-pitch complete game, allowing nine hits and seven walks but ultimately leading the Dodgers to a 5-4 victory. This win sparked a comeback, with the Dodgers taking the next three games to win the series in six. Tragically, on October 25, 2024, Valenzuela passed away at the age of 63. His cause of death was not disclosed.
Valenzuela, who had retired from his role as a Spanish-language broadcaster for the Dodgers in late September due to health concerns, left a lasting impact on the baseball world. The Dodgers announced that they would honor him by wearing a patch in his memory during the World Series and the following season.
Valenzuela’s legacy extended beyond his pitching prowess. He had a significant impact on the Mexican American and Latino communities, drawing fans to the game and bringing people together. Despite language barriers, Valenzuela’s charm and skill made him an international celebrity in 1981 during the height of Fernandomania.
Throughout his career, Valenzuela won numerous awards, including the NL Rookie of the Year and Cy Young award in 1981. He made six consecutive All-Star teams and spent 22 years as a broadcaster after retiring as a player. The Dodgers honored Valenzuela with a Legends of Dodger Baseball recognition in 2019 and dedicated a Fernandomania Weekend in 2023, retiring his jersey number 34 in tribute.
Valenzuela’s impact reached far beyond the baseball diamond. He was a beloved figure who brought joy and inspiration to fans around the world. His legacy will live on in the hearts of Dodgers fans and the baseball community for generations to come.
For his career, Valenzuela amassed a record of 173-153 with a 3.54 ERA, 31 shutouts, and 2,074 strikeouts. He excelled in postseason play, with a 5-1 record and a 1.98 ERA in 63.2 innings. Valenzuela’s humble beginnings in a small town in Mexico contrasted with his meteoric rise to stardom, showcasing his exceptional talent and perseverance in the face of adversity.
