Fernando Valenzuela, the legendary Dodgers pitcher, passed away at age 63 after a three-week hospital stay.
Fernando Valenzuela, the legendary Dodgers pitcher, passed away at age 63 after a three-week hospital stay.
The cause of his death remains undisclosed, coming just days before the 2024 World Series.
Born in Sonora, Mexico, Valenzuela became a cultural icon during the 1980s, igniting "Fernandomania."
He won both the Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in his stellar rookie season in 1981.
Major League Baseball expressed sadness over Valenzuela’s passing, calling him a beloved figure.
The Dodgers retired his number 34 jersey in 2023, honoring his status as a baseball great.
Valenzuela is recognized as the most successful Mexican-born pitcher in MLB history, with 173 wins and 2,074 strikeouts.
After his playing career, he served as a Spanish-language broadcaster for over two decades, maintaining his connection to the team.