LA Dodgers legend Fernando Valenzuela passes away at 63
The Los Angeles Dodgers were devastated to announce today that one of their legends, Fernando Valenzuela, has sadly passed away at the age of 63.
Fernando Valenzuela, the Hall of Fame left-handed pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers who later in his career became a cherished Spanish-language broadcaster with the team, died, the Dodgers announced Tuesday night. Born in Mexico, Valenzuela had an unforgettable career in Major League Baseball, where he became one of the sport's most celebrated figures. His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through Dodgers Nation and the broader baseball community.
In all, Valenzuela would see 17 seasons in the majors, though no time was more memorable than the ones spent in a Dodgers uniform. In 1981, he was part of history when his team took the World Series from the New York Yankees. That same year, Valenzuela accomplished the rare feat of earning Rookie of the Year and Cy Young awards in the same season. That dominance on the mound that year led to "Fernandomania," as fans worldwide were enamored with him.
In addition to his personal success, Valenzuela, after retiring, seamlessly transitioned to become a broadcaster, having spent 22 years serving as a Spanish-language broadcaster for the Dodgers. He has been incredibly close to the organization and the fanbase. His iconic No. 34 jersey was retired by the Dodgers in 2023, immortalizing his place within the franchise. Earlier this month, the Dodgers had announced that the team legend would be stepping away from his broadcasting duties to take a greater focus on his health, but there had been some hope that he might return next season.
Valenzuela's death sadly comes just weeks after his surprise exit from the broadcast booth during a September game against the San Diego Padres. Recovery and return were the hopes among fans; news of his passing now breaks many hearts. Major League Baseball also commented on this occasion with deep grieving, as this league knows the impact he brought into the sport.
As fans, teammates, and the wider baseball community continue to mourn his death, the legacy of Fernando Valenzuela remains indelible. A six-time All-Star, Valenzuela holds the record for most wins,173, and strikeouts, 2,074, by a Mexican-born pitcher, and his influence on the game will continue to inspire future generations. Fernando Valenzuela was 63 years old and is survived by his wife Linda, four children, and seven grandchildren. He will be remembered forever as one of the sports icons of baseball. Rest in peace, Fernando.
