Fernando Valenzuela, Mexican-Born Pitcher Whose Feats for Dodgers Fueled ‘Fernandomania,’ Dies at 63

Fernando Valenzuela, the Mexican-born pitcher who became a baseball sensation and inspired “Fernandomania,” passed away at age 63.

Farewell to a Legend: Fernando Valenzuela’s Legacy in Baseball

Known for his unorthodox pitching and dominance on the mound, Valenzuela’s rise to fame began when he won both the National League (NL) Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in 1981, a feat no one had accomplished before. Born in a small Mexican village, Valenzuela grew up as the youngest of 12 children, eventually capturing the hearts of Dodgers fans and cementing his place in Los Angeles’ Latino community.

In 1981, Valenzuela became the Dodgers’ opening-day starter after Jerry Reuss was injured. He not only delivered a shutout but went on to win eight consecutive games, making the season magical for Dodgers fans and marking the birth of “Fernandomania.” His performances that year were stellar, finishing the season with a 13-7 record and an impressive 2.48 ERA.

A Legendary Career

Valenzuela’s unique style, including his memorable skyward gaze during his windup, made him stand out on the mound. His mastery of the screwball—a pitch taught by his teammate Bobby Castillo—helped him dominate hitters. During his peak years from 1981 to 1986, Valenzuela earned six consecutive All-Star selections, compiled 97 victories, and was a critical player for the Dodgers. He was known for both his consistency and his endurance, throwing 84 complete games during that period.

In 1990, Valenzuela threw a no-hitter against the St. Louis Cardinals, further solidifying his place in baseball history. Hall of Fame broadcaster Vin Scully famously exclaimed, “If you have a sombrero, throw it to the sky!” as Valenzuela closed out the game. Despite his success, shoulder injuries began to hinder his career, and by the early 1990s, his performance declined. After leaving the Dodgers in 1991, Valenzuela played for several other Major League teams before retiring in 1997.

Beyond the Game

Valenzuela’s impact extended far beyond the baseball diamond. He remained a beloved figure in Los Angeles and the Latino community long after his retirement. In 2003, he joined the Dodgers’ Spanish-language radio team as a color commentator, eventually moving to television broadcasts. His contributions to baseball were recognized when the Dodgers inducted him into their Ring of Honor in 2023 and retired his iconic No. 34 jersey. Valenzuela’s influence on Mexican baseball was profound, as he served as a coach for Mexico’s national team in the World Baseball Classic and was inducted into the Mexican Baseball Hall of Fame. A U.S. citizen since 2015, Valenzuela was also part-owner of the Mexican League team Tigres de Quintana Roo. His passing has left a void in the baseball world, but his legacy will live on. Valenzuela is survived by his wife, Linda, his children, and seven grandchildren, continuing to inspire future generations of baseball fans and players alike.

Valenzuela’s Legacy

Fernando Valenzuela’s contributions to baseball, especially within the Latino community, cannot be overstated. From humble beginnings to becoming an international icon, Valenzuela’s career and impact will continue to inspire athletes and fans for years to come.