Former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher and broadcaster Fernando Valenzuela has sadly passed away at the age of 63.
Rest in peace Fernando Valenzuela 🙏💙 pic.twitter.com/bmfMl6BGIG
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) October 23, 2024
A monumental figure in baseball history, Valenzuela was greatly beloved by fans during his tenure with the Dodgers. His entry into Major League Baseball was nothing less than extraordinary, achieving the distinction of winning both the Rookie of the Year and a Cy Young Award in the same season—a milestone that has yet to be matched. Additionally, he played a vital role in securing the Dodgers’ World Series victory over the New York Yankees in 1981, his rookie year.
We are saddened by the news of the passing of the esteemed former Dodgers player Fernando Valenzuela.
“Fernandomania” emerged in 1981 when the young 20-year-old rookie launched the season with an impressive 8-0 record and a 0.50 ERA. He capped off his remarkable season by securing both the… pic.twitter.com/a28H5Cptox
— MLB (@MLB) October 23, 2024
The phenomenon known as “Fernandomania” began with his unforgettable debut on September 15, 1980. Valenzuela’s outstanding performance as a 19-year-old reliever included pitching 17.2 scoreless innings to end the 1980 season, setting the stage for his future successes. His first start as an emergency pitcher on Opening Day in 1981 led to a remarkable complete-game 2-0 shutout against the Houston Astros.
Last year, Valenzuela reflected on the significant moment when he was tasked with pitching the first game of his rookie season.
Fernandomania forever. pic.twitter.com/zXhOF8cRCP
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 23, 2024
Valenzuela’s remarkable performance was evident in his first eight starts of the season, where he boasted an undefeated record of 8-0, including five shutouts and an astounding 0.50 ERA.
One highlight among his shutout victories was a 1-0 win against the Mets, where he struck out 11 batters.
Hailing from Etchohuaquila, Sonora, Mexico, the left-hander won the hearts of Los Angeles fans with his magnetic presence on the field, characterized by his distinctive pitching style and signature screwball pitch, securing a special place among supporters.
The season culminated in triumph as the Dodgers captured the 1981 World Series (4-2), with Valenzuela’s stellar performance in Game 3 playing a pivotal role in their success.
His rookie season statistics included a 13-7 record, a 2.48 ERA, 11 complete games, and eight shutouts. Valenzuela led the National League by tossing 192.1 innings and achieved the highest strikeout total (180) in the league that year.
Jaime Jarrin, the Dodgers Hall of Fame Spanish broadcaster and Valenzuela’s interpreter, highlighted the immense impact Fernando had on the city.
“His innate charm was unparalleled. Despite being just 19 when he made his major league debut [in September 1980] after a brief stint in San Antonio at Double-A, he quickly became a fan favorite. The people were enamored with him… A 19-year-old with a somewhat chubby physique, long hair, and distinct Yaqui Indian ancestry. These attributes truly endeared him to the public, leading to an overwhelming embrace of Fernando within weeks.”
In 1981, Fernando Valenzuela captivated the baseball scene. His remarkable achievements of winning the NL Rookie of the Year, Cy Young Award & a World Series title remain unforgettable.
In memory of the legendary Dodgers icon, who sadly passed away at the age of 63 on Tuesday, let’s reminisce about the era of “Fernandomania.” pic.twitter.com/oAGgmddlFB
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) October 23, 2024
Image Source: Los Angeles Dodgers @ YouTube
