Fernando Valenzuela, the legendary Mexican pitcher who captivated Los Angeles Dodgers fans and sparked “Fernandomania,” has passed away at the age of 63. The Dodgers reported that he died on Tuesday night at a hospital in Los Angeles, although the cause of death has not been disclosed.
Valenzuela’s death coincides with the upcoming World Series, which the Dodgers are set to play against the New York Yankees. Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred announced that Valenzuela will be honored during the series at Dodger Stadium. Team president Stan Kasten called him one of the most significant figures in the team’s history, emphasizing his lasting legacy and connection with fans.
Valenzuela had recently stepped down from his role as a Spanish-language television color commentator and had been hospitalized earlier this month. His presence at games was missed by fans who often sought him out for autographs and photos. His impact on fans was highlighted by Dodgers supporter and actor Danny Trejo, who expressed his condolences on social media.
Rising to fame in the 1980s, Valenzuela was known for his remarkable pitching skills and charismatic persona. Despite not being inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, his contributions to the game are recognized at Cooperstown with artifacts from his career, including memorabilia from his no-hitter in 1990.
His impressive career began in 1981 when he stepped up as the Dodgers’ opening day starter after an injury to another player. Valenzuela won both the NL Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in the same season, a historic achievement that made him a fan favorite during the “Fernandomania” phenomenon, marked by the lively playing of ABBA’s hit “Fernando” as he warmed up.
Throughout his career, Valenzuela was a six-time All-Star and recorded 173 career wins in Major League Baseball, becoming the all-time leader in victories and strikeouts for a Mexican-born player. He retired in 1997 and is remembered for his unique pitching style and his role in expanding the popularity of baseball within the Latino community.
Born in the small town of Etchohuaquila, Mexico, Valenzuela’s journey to stardom was remarkable for its humble beginnings. He joined the Dodgers at the age of 18 and quickly made an impact in the major leagues. His later years included broadcasting roles with the Dodgers and engagements in the baseball community.
Valenzuela leaves behind a legacy of excellence in baseball and profound connections with fans, particularly within the Latino community. He is survived by his wife, Linda, their children, and grandchildren.