Dodgers legend Fernando Valenzuela dies at 63, reason undisclosed

The Los Angeles Dodgers announced the death of former pitcher Fernando Valenzuela at the age of 63 on Tuesday night. Popularly known as "Fernandomania", the legendary pitcher played 17 major league seasons, most notably with the Dodgers (1981-1990).

During his Dodgers tenure, he earned six All-Star selections and the NL Cy Young Award. He won the NL Rookie of the Year and the World Series in his debut season.

The announcement of his death came just a few days before the highly anticipated Fall Classic between the Dodgers and the Yankees. Earlier this month, the Spanish broadcaster was hospitalized for an undisclosed health issue.

"Fernando Valenzuela has stepped away from the Dodger broadcast booth for the remainder of this year to focus on his health," the Dodgers said in a statement.

"He and his family truly appreciate the love and support of fans as he aims to return for the 2025 season, and they have asked for privacy during this time."

Valenzuela retired in 1997 after finishing his career with the St. Louis Cardinals. He rejoined the Dodgers as a broadcaster in 2003. In August 2023, the Dodgers retired his No. 34 jersey, breaking the tradition of only retiring numbers of Hall of Fame players.

Fernando Valenzuela's legacy to be celebrated during 2024 World Series: MLB Commissioner

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred said the league will honor Fernando Valenzuela's legacy during the 2024 World Series, which starts this Friday.

"Fernando was an outstanding ambassador for baseball," Manfred said. "He consistently supported the growth of the game through the World Baseball Classic and at MLB events across his home country. As a member of the Dodger broadcasting team for more than 20 years, Fernando helped to reach a new generation of fans and cultivate their love of the game."

"Fernando will always remain a beloved figure in Dodger history and a special source of pride for the millions of Latino fans he inspired."

While Valenzuela was not inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, he was honored in the Mexican Hall of Fame. He went 173-153 on the mound with a 3.54 ERA and over 2000 Ks (2,074).