Where is Fernando Valenzuela Now? Who is Fernando Valenzuela?
by
Updated Sep 27, 2024
Where is Fernando Valenzuela Now?
Fernando Valenzuela is currently not part of the Los Angeles Dodgers Spanish-language broadcast team. As of September 2024, he has stepped away indefinitely, and the team has not shared the reason for his absence. It is unlikely that he will return for the playoffs this season.
Valenzuela is a former legendary pitcher, known for his remarkable rookie season in 1981, which sparked "Fernandomania." During that year, he became the first player to win both the National League Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in the same season. He also played a key role in helping the Dodgers win the World Series that year.
Even though he is not currently on air, Valenzuela's legacy remains strong. In 2023, the Dodgers retired his No. 34 jersey and inducted him into the Dodger Stadium Ring of Honor, celebrating his lasting impact on the team and its fans.
Who is Fernando Valenzuela?
Fernando Valenzuela is a former Major League Baseball pitcher from Mexico, known for his incredible talent and popularity in the 1980s. He started his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1981 and quickly became a star, winning both the Rookie of the Year and Cy Young Award in the same season. His unique pitching style and routine made him a media sensation, leading to a phenomenon called "Fernandomania."
| Full Name | Fernando Valenzuela |
| Birthdate | November 1, 1960 |
| Birthplace | Etchohuaquila, Mexico |
| Nationality | Mexican |
| Profession | Former Professional Baseball Pitcher |
| Teams Played For | Los Angeles Dodgers,
California Angels, St. Louis Cardinals, among others |
| Unique Style | Known for his distinctive pitching routine |
| Legacy | Sparked "Fernandomania"
and influenced many Latino players in baseball |
| Retired Number | #34 retired by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2023 |
Fernando Valenzuela Age
Fernando Valenzuela is 63 years old. He was born on November 1, 1960. Valenzuela is a former professional baseball pitcher who played mainly for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Fernando Valenzuela Career
Fernando Valenzuela had a successful baseball career as a pitcher. He played mainly for the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1980 to 1990. Valenzuela became famous for his unique pitching style and strong performance, especially in the 1981 season when he won both the Rookie of the Year and the Cy Young Award.
He helped the Dodgers win the World Series in 1981. Valenzuela also played for other teams, including the San Diego Padres and the St. Louis Cardinals. After retiring in 1997, he continued to be involved in baseball as a broadcaster and mentor. His contributions to the sport made him a beloved figure, especially among Latino fans.
Fernando Valenzuela Net Worth
Fernando Valenzuela has a net worth of $6 million. He is a former professional baseball player from Mexico, famous for his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Valenzuela started his baseball career in 1977 and played in the Mexican Central League before joining the Dodgers in 1980.
His rookie season was outstanding; he won both the Cy Young Award and the Rookie of the Year Award, a unique achievement. Over his 17-year career in Major League Baseball, Valenzuela played for several teams, but he is best known for his years with the Dodgers, where he helped them win a World Series in 1981.
Fernando Valenzuela Hall of Fame
Fernando Valenzuela is honored in several Hall of Fames for his contributions to baseball. He was inducted into the Hispanic Heritage Baseball Museum Hall of Fame on August 23, 2003, during a special ceremony at Dodger Stadium.
In 2013, he was also enshrined in the Caribbean Baseball Hall of Fame, recognizing his impact in Caribbean baseball. Additionally, Valenzuela was inducted into the Baseball Reliquary's Shrine of the Eternals in 2006, celebrating players who made significant cultural impacts in the game.
The Dodgers showed great respect for Valenzuela by unofficially keeping his jersey number 34 out of circulation and later officially retiring it on August 11, 2023. This made him one of only two non-Hall of Fame Dodgers to have their jersey numbers retired. His legacy continues to be celebrated through various honors and recognitions in baseball.
Is Fernando Valenzuela Sick?
No, Fernando Valenzuela is not currently sick. There have been no reports indicating any health issues. He remains active in baseball, primarily serving as a broadcaster for the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he shares his expertise and passion for the game.
Valenzuela is known for his legendary status in Major League Baseball, particularly during the "Fernandomania" phenomenon in the 1980s. His influence and contributions to the sport continue to resonate with fans and players alike, showcasing his enduring legacy in baseball.
