Fernando Valenzuela, the iconic Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher who sparked “Fernandomania,” has died at 63, leaving behind a legacy that transcended baseball.
At a Glance
- Fernando Valenzuela, legendary Dodgers pitcher, passed away at 63
- No cause of death provided
- Valenzuela’s 1981 season earned him Rookie of the Year, Cy Young Award, and World Series title
- Known for his distinctive pitching style and “screwball” pitch
- Served as Spanish-language broadcaster for Dodgers for 22 years
A Legacy Beyond the Diamond
Fernando Valenzuela, the Mexican-born pitcher who became a Los Angeles Dodgers legend, has passed away at the age of 63. The news of his death has sent shockwaves through the baseball community and beyond, as fans and fellow players remember the man who ignited “Fernandomania” in the early 1980s.
Valenzuela’s impact on the game was immediate and profound. After making his MLB debut in 1980 at just 19 years old, he took the league by storm in 1981. That season, he achieved the rare feat of winning both the National League Rookie of the Year and the Cy Young Award, while also helping lead the Dodgers to a World Series victory over the New York Yankees.
Legendary Dodgers pitcher Fernando Valenzuela dies at 63 https://t.co/bJrf8AoXhp
— WCPO 9 (@WCPO) October 23, 2024
“Fernandomania” Takes Hold
The phenomenon known as “Fernandomania” swept across the United States and Mexico during Valenzuela’s rookie season. His unique pitching style, which included looking skyward during his windup, and his devastating screwball pitch made him a fan favorite and a formidable opponent on the mound.
“Fernando Valenzuela was one of the most impactful players of his generation,” MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement on Tuesday night.
“With his distinctive pitching style, the Dodgers left-hander’s rookie season generated so much excitement in the U.S. and his native Mexico that it became commonly referred to as ‘Fernandomania.’”
Valenzuela’s success on the field was matched by his cultural impact off it. As one of the first Mexican-born players to achieve superstar status in Major League Baseball, he became an icon for Latino fans and players alike. His success helped pave the way for future generations of Latin American players in the big leagues.
A Career of Consistency and Excellence
Over his 17-year MLB career, 11 of which were spent with the Dodgers, Valenzuela amassed 173 wins, struck out 2,074 batters, and maintained a respectable 3.54 ERA. He was known for his durability and consistency, leading the National League in complete games three times, including an impressive 20 complete games in 1986.
Fernando Valenzuela Dies: Legendary Dodgers Pitcher Who Inspired "Fernandomania" Was 63 https://t.co/JxHb6SnuQm
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) October 23, 2024
After his playing career, Valenzuela remained close to the game and the Dodgers organization. For 22 years, he served as a Spanish-language broadcaster for the team, further cementing his place in Dodgers history. His recent hospitalization in October came shortly after he stepped down from this role in September.
