As the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare to take the field at Dodger Stadium for the World Series opener, the electricity in the air will carry an added weight of nostalgia and remembrance. A notable patch, emblazoned with the number 34, prominently adorns their uniforms, paying tribute to one of the most beloved figures in the team’s storied history—Fernando Valenzuela. The iconic pitcher, whose career was marked by prodigious accomplishments and profound impact on the sport, passed away earlier this week at the age of 63.
Valenzuela, affectionately known as "El Toro," captured the hearts of baseball fans and reshaped the landscape of Major League Baseball during his extraordinary career. His journey, which began as a 20-year-old rookie in 1981, quickly turned into a phenomenon that transcended the boundaries of the sport. That year, Valenzuela’s commanding performances enthralled the nation as he won his first eight starts, completed seven of them, and threw five shutouts. The Mexican left-hander's remarkable prowess on the mound earned him both the Rookie of the Year and the Cy Young awards, an incredible feat that highlighted his debut season.
Valenzuela's presence was more than just about numbers and trophies. He became a talismanic figure for the Dodgers, propelling the team to a World Series championship victory over the New York Yankees in the same year. The indelible mark he left on the Dodgers and the game itself was evident when, in 2023, his iconic No. 34 was officially retired by the Dodgers—an honor befitting a player of his caliber.
As Commissioner Rob Manfred aptly observed, "Fernando Valenzuela was one of the most impactful players of his generation." This sentiment echoes through the halls of Dodger Stadium and resonates across the baseball world, particularly among the loyal fanbase in Mexico, where Valenzuela is hailed as a national hero.
Valenzuela’s influence extended beyond his playing days. After retiring from an illustrious career that spanned from 1980 to 1990 with the Dodgers, he transitioned smoothly into broadcasting. For over two decades, he continued to serve as a cherished voice for the Dodgers, covering games as part of the Spanish-language broadcast team. Unfortunately, health issues recently led him to step back from his broadcasting duties, but his legacy continued to thrive.
The Dodgers organization, known for its strong sense of heritage and connection to its fanbase, will honor Valenzuela’s memory during the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium. Commissioner Manfred expressed deep respect and condolences, stating, "We will honor Fernando's memory during the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium. On behalf of Major League Baseball, I extend my deepest condolences to Fernando's family, the Dodgers, his friends across the game, and all the loyal baseball fans of Mexico."
This upcoming tribute will serve as a poignant reminder of Valenzuela's monumental contribution to the sport, both on and off the field. His career, characterized by its exceptional achievements and cultural significance, continues to inspire countless players and fans. As the Dodgers take to the field with the No. 34 emblazoned on their sleeves, it’s a gesture that not only honors a legend but also signifies how deeply rooted Fernando Valenzuela is in the very fabric of this heralded franchise.
Fernando Valenzuela's story is a testament to the power of talent, determination, and the ability to connect with people beyond borders. As the Dodgers proceed in their quest for World Series success, they do so with the spirit of a man who epitomized excellence and passion—a legacy that will forever remain as vivid in the memories of all who witnessed his greatness. The world of baseball bids farewell to Fernando Valenzuela, the man who redefined what a pitcher could be and who left an indelible mark on the hearts of the Dodgers faithful and the game itself.