Legendary Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher and broadcaster Fernando Valenzuela handed in October, however his legacy prevails to this present day.
The Dodgers icon performed 17 seasons in MLB from 1980-91 and 1993-97. Though he performed for six totally different golf equipment, he spent probably the most time with the Dodgers.
In Los Angeles, he grew to become the primary participant to win Rookie of the 12 months and a Cy Younger in the identical season.
Dodgers Nation’s Antonio Curiel highlights Valenzuela’s mural in Boyle Heights, the place followers expressed how influential “Fernandomania” was for town of Los Angeles.
Edward James Olmos, an actor and activist, detailed the historical past of Valenzuela’s influence on each the group and Dodgers group.
“Fernando caused a giant change to this group,” Olmos instructed Curiel. “Earlier than Fernando got here to play, Chicanos particularly wouldn’t go to the stadium due to what had occurred in Chavez Ravine. He did an terrible lot for the unification of town.”
Valenzuela is credited with popularizing the sport of baseball amongst Mexican-American followers. “El Toro” grew to become a hero to many Latino followers and paved the way in which for different Mexican gamers to achieve the majors.
For a lot of Mexican followers, Valenzuela was the primary acquainted face they may comply with with the Dodgers.
“I felt like he was a part of the household,” mentioned longtime Dodgers fan Juan Saldana.
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Photograph Credit score: Kirby Lee-Imagn Pictures
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