Fernando Valenzuela Dies: Los Angeles Dodgers Pitcher Was 63
Former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher turned broadcaster Fernando Valenzuela is dead at 63, the team announced Tuesday night. No cause was given.
Valenzuela played 17 seasons in MLB from 1980-91 and 1993-97. He played for six different clubs, but is best remembered for his time with the Dodgers. He became the first player to win the Rookie of the Year and Cy Young in the same season.
Valenzuela was also the first rookie to lead the majors in strikeouts.
The pitcher helped lead the Dodgers to a World Series title as a 20-year-old rookie. The 1981 season created the phenomenon known as “Fernandomania.”
He is survived by his wife, Linda, four children, seven grandchildren, and extended family.