The Dodgers honored Valenzuela in 2023 by retiring his No. 34.
Dodgers legend Fernando Valenzuela has passed away at the age of 63, the Major League Baseball (MLB) confirmed on Tuesday. Also known as “El Toro”, Valenzuela had recently stepped away from his role in the Dodgers’ broadcast booth to focus on his health.
Valenzuela had an 11-year stint with the Boys in Blue in MLB and led the team to a World Series title in 1981. By the time Fernando hung up his cleats, he was amongst the franchises’ top 10 all-time in wins, strikeouts, innings pitched, games started, complete games, and shutouts.
The Dodgers honored Valenzuela in 2023 by retiring his No. 34. He was only the 11th Dodger to receive the honor.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred paid tribute to the Dodgers’ legend while sharing a statement following the news.
“Fernando Valenzuela was one of the most impactful players of his generation. With his distinctive pitching style, the Dodger left-hander’s rookie season generated so much excitement in the U.S. and his native Mexico that it became commonly referred to as ‘Fernandomania,'” the statement read, in part. “Following his memorable career, Fernando was an outstanding ambassador for baseball. He consistently supported the growth of the game through the World Baseball Classic and at MLB events across his home country.”
The MLB plans to honor Valenzuela during the 2024 World Series opener at Dodger Stadium on Friday, October 25.
Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Network.
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