The health of a Los Angeles baseball icon has been thrust into the spotlight as reports indicate Fernando Valenzuela, former Dodgers pitcher and current Spanish-language broadcaster, has been hospitalized. Stepping out of the broadcast booth on September 24 during the series against the San Diego Padres, Valenzuela's absence was initially unexplained. According to KTLA, the team did not publicize the reason behind his departure from playcalling duties last week.
David Faitelson, a journalist with TUDN (TelevisaUnivision), broke the news on social media on Monday, revealing that Valenzuela had been hospitalized, citing "Not much is known. He and his family have wanted to keep the disease secret," in a statement that wishing for a quick recovery for Valenzuela, as reported by the KTLA. Larry Brown Sports suggests that the 63-year-old broadcasting veteran is not expected to return for the Dodgers' postseason broadcasts.
Valenzuela's legacy with the Dodgers extends far beyond the microphone - as a player in the 1980s, he became a cultural symbol, especially among Latino communities. His remarkable 1981 season saw him being crowned both the National League Rookie of the Year and Cy Young Award winner, as detailed by FOX LA. Moreover, his pivotal role in the Dodgers' 1981 World Series victory cemented his status as a sports icon. Valenzuela's storied career also included time with the San Diego Padres, Baltimore Orioles, Philadelphia Phillies, California Angels, and St. Louis Cardinals before retiring in 1997. His number, 34, has been retired by the Dodgers in recognition of his contributions to the franchise.
Despite the concerns around his health, Valenzuela's considerable impact cannot be underestimated. He reshaped the fan base of the Dodgers, instigating "Fernandomania" and drawing huge crowds, as NBC Los Angeles noted. Starting in a few games in 1980, he made an explosive impact in 1981, winning his first eight games, including five shutouts. His career statistics solidify his legend: a 173-153 record, a 3.54 ERA, and he marked his place in history with a no-hitter against the St. Louis Cardinals on June 29, 1990. The Dodgers' choice to honor him with a special "Fernandomania'' weekend in August 2023 underlines the enduring reverence for his legacy.
