Get ready to celebrate one of the greatest pitchers in Los Angeles Dodgers history! On Friday night at Dodger Stadium, the team retired Fernando Valenzuela’s iconic No. 34 jersey. This incredible event was the highlight of “Fernando Valenzuela Day,” as declared by the city council.
Before the game, the 62-year-old Valenzuela expressed his emotions to a room full of English and Spanish-language media, saying, “It’s very emotional. I never expected it.” The excitement continued after the game with a special drone show dedicated to honoring Valenzuela.
But the celebration doesn’t stop there! On Saturday, the team will be giving away Valenzuela bobbleheads, and on Sunday, lucky fans will receive replicas of Valenzuela’s 1981 World Series ring. It’s a weekend filled with love and appreciation for a true Dodgers legend.
Valenzuela’s impact goes beyond his incredible pitching skills. He broke into the Dodgers in 1981, winning the World Series, Rookie of the Year, and the Cy Young Award all in the same year. He made history as the first player to achieve this remarkable feat.
His journey began when manager Tommy Lasorda named him the Opening Day starter. Valenzuela responded with a 2-0 victory over Houston, kickstarting the season with an impressive 8-0 record, including five shutouts, and an astonishing 0.50 ERA. Valenzuela recalled Lasorda’s words, “Are you ready to pitch tomorrow?” and he seized the opportunity to showcase his talent.
Valenzuela’s signature pitch, the screwball, was taught to him by teammate Bobby Castillo in 1979. But Valenzuela’s impact extended far beyond the diamond. As a native of Mexico, he drew a massive following of Latino fans to Dodger Stadium, creating the unforgettable “Fernandomania” sensation.
The Dodgers honored Valenzuela by unveiling his retired number on the left field club level, where he joined the ranks of other esteemed honorees like Pee Wee Reese, Duke Snider, Sandy Koufax, and Jackie Robinson. Valenzuela’s legacy also includes winning the 1988 World Series with the Dodgers and receiving Silver Slugger awards in 1981 and ’83.
Even after retiring in 1997, Valenzuela continues to contribute to the Dodgers as the color commentator on the Spanish-language broadcasts for SportsNet LA cable channel. His career statistics as a Dodger are still among the team’s best, with 141 wins, 1,759 strikeouts, 320 starts, 107 complete games, and 29 shutouts.
In 2015, Valenzuela became a naturalized U.S. citizen, further solidifying his place in American baseball history. Join us in celebrating this incredible pitcher and his lasting impact on the Los Angeles Dodgers.
