Fernando ValenzuelaThe iconic Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher who became the team’s Spanish broadcaster has died, the team announced Tuesday night.
Legend played 17 seasons in the MLB…most of his tenure with the Dodgers, whom he helped win the 1981 World Series when Los Angeles defeated the New York Yankees.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are mourning the passing of legendary pitcher Fernando Valenzuela. pic.twitter.com/MXeBlDzDWJ
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 23, 2024
@Dodgers:
The Mexican-born superstar became the first player to win Rookie of the Year and Cy Young in the same season. An almost unparalleled feat.
How? TMZ Sports It was previously reported that the Dodgers announced earlier this month that Fernando would not return to his role with the team’s Spanish broadcast group this season, saying he was taking time to focus on his health.
The team made the surprising announcement just days after he abruptly left the microphone in a Sept. 24 game against the San Diego Padres.
But despite what appeared to be a potentially serious medical situation, Fernando was rumored to be back next season … which was music to the ears of Dodgers fans.
Unfortunately, Fernando will now have to watch from above … as his beloved team faces the Yankees in the World Series starting Friday.
With the news, Dodgers nation is devastated … from team executives to the loyal fan base.
“He’s one of the most influential Dodgers ever and belongs on the Mount Rushmore of franchise heroes. He inspired the fan base with the 1981 Fernandomania season and has remained in our hearts ever since, not only as a player but also as a broadcaster. He left us too soon,” said team president and CEO Stan Kasten.
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Dodgers great Fernando Valenzuela.
“Fernandomania” swept baseball in 1981 when the 20-year-old rookie sensation started the season 8-0 with a 0.50 ERA. The left-hander capped off his incredible year by winning two… pic.twitter.com/a28H5Cptox
— MLB (@MLB) October 23, 2024
@MLB:
Major League Baseball also released a statement, specifically saying… “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Dodgers great Fernando Valenzuela.”
Valenzuela was a 6-time All-Star and has the most wins (173) and strikeouts (2,074) of any player of Mexican descent. He spent the last 22 years as the Spanish-language announcer for the Dodgers, who will have his No. 34 retired in 2023.
Even as a young man, he was a star. “Fernandomania” swept baseball in 1981 when the 20-year-old rookie sensation started the season 8-0 with a 0.50 ERA.
Fernando was 63 years old and is survived by his wife Linda and four children Fernando Jr., Ricardo, Linda and Maria Fernando, and seven grandchildren.
R.I.P
