Dodgers to Honor Fernando Valenzuela in World Series Opener at Dodger Stadium
With deep reverence for one of Major League Baseball's (MLB) most cherished figures, the Los Angeles Dodgers will enter Dodger Stadium for the World Series opener adorned with a No. 34 patch on their uniforms. This gesture honors the iconic Fernando Valenzuela, who recently passed away at the age of 63. Valenzuela's contributions to the sport, particularly his indelible impact on the Dodgers' legacy, have left a lasting imprint that goes well beyond the field.
Remembering a Legend
Fernando Valenzuela's journey to baseball stardom began in earnest in 1981 when he burst onto the scene as a fresh-faced 20-year-old rookie. Displaying prodigious skill and a poise that belied his years, Valenzuela won his first eight starts in a dazzling run that included seven complete games and five shutouts. This stunning performance earned him both the Rookie of the Year and Cy Young awards. His brilliance on the mound was instrumental in steering the Dodgers to a World Series championship that year, defeating the formidable New York Yankees.
Valenzuela's No. 34 was retired by the Dodgers in 2023, an honor reflecting his decade-long tenure with the team from 1980 to 1990. During his time in Los Angeles, Valenzuela not only became a cornerstone of the team's pitching lineup but also captured the hearts and imaginations of fans, particularly those hailing from Mexico.
A Lasting Impact on and off the Field
Following his illustrious playing career, Fernando Valenzuela transitioned seamlessly into the realm of broadcasting. He was a well-regarded fixture in the Dodgers' Spanish-language broadcast booth, bringing his insightful commentary to the game he loved for over 20 years. He had stepped back from this role recently due to health challenges that eventually led to his passing.
Rob Manfred, the MLB Commissioner, encapsulated Valenzuela's wide-reaching influence in the sport with his statement: "Fernando Valenzuela was one of the most impactful players of his generation." This sentiment echoes across the baseball community, resonating with players, coaches, and fans alike who witnessed or heard about Valenzuela's electric presence on the mound.
Honoring a Legacy
The decision to honor Valenzuela during the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium underscores the profound respect held for him within the organization and the broader baseball fraternity. Commissioner Manfred expressed the collective loss felt across the league: "We will honor Fernando's memory during the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium. On behalf of Major League Baseball, I extend my deepest condolences to Fernando's family, the Dodgers, his friends across the game, and all the loyal baseball fans of Mexico."
As the Dodgers prepare to pay tribute to this beloved figure at the World Series, Fernando Valenzuela's legacy as both a Dodger and an ambassador for baseball endures. His story is not merely one of individual achievement but of the enduring connection between sports icons and the communities they inspire. In wearing the No. 34 patch, the Dodgers will do more than commemorate a player—they will celebrate an era defined by excitement, excellence, and an unfaltering love for the game.