One of the Los Angeles Dodgers' legendary pitchers passed away days before the Dodgers will face the New York Yankees in the 2024 World Series.
Fernando Valenzuela, who took over the hearts of Los Angeles in the early 80s, passed away yesterday. He was 63 years old.
From Navojoa, Mexico, Valenzuela was a late call-up in 1980. Due to an injury to Jerry Reuss on the eve of the 1981 Opening Day, he got the call and began the season by winning his first eight decisions. He finished the season as 13-7 with a league-leading 190 Strikeouts and would win the National League Rookie of the Year and Cy Young Award. The Dodgers won the World Series that year, and Fernandomania was the toast of the baseball world.
Valenzuela did not speak English when he was called up, and his portly body did not look athletic at all. Still, he had an infectious smile and undeniable charisma, and he became a fan favorite among all Dodgers fans, Hispanic or not.
He went on to have three more top-five Cy Young finishes, was a six-time All-Star, a two-time Silver Slugger, and a one-time Gold Glove winner. Valenzuela also played for California, Baltimore, Philadelphia, San Diego, and St. Louis and had a record of 173-152 with 2,074 Strikeouts. Following his playing career, Valenzuela worked for the Dodgers on their Spanish Language broadcasts, and stepped aside a week ago to focus on his health.
We here at Notinhalloffame.com would like to extend our condolences to the fans, friends and family of Fernando Valenzuela.
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