The world of baseball mourns the loss of Fernando Valenzuela, the Mexican pitching legend who passed away on October 22 at the age of 63.
Valenzuela, who had been battling severe liver complications, was admitted to a Los Angeles hospital where he ultimately succumbed to multi-organ failure. Known for his illustrious career with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Valenzuela left an indelible mark on Major League Baseball (MLB) and the world of sports.
A Baseball Icon Passes Away
Fernando Valenzuela, affectionately known as “El Toro”, passed away this Tuesday in Los Angeles. His family has remained private about the details of his illness, but it is known that the former pitcher had been hospitalized due to severe liver complications. Valenzuela had been in intensive care for several weeks before experiencing a multi-organ collapse that led to his death.
Valenzuela’s death shocked the baseball community, as just days before, the Los Angeles Dodgers announced that he would be stepping away from his role as a Spanish-language broadcaster due to health concerns. The Dodgers, the team where he cemented his legacy, requested privacy for his family and asked fans to keep Valenzuela in their thoughts during this difficult time.
From the Diamond to the Broadcast Booth
While Fernando Valenzuela’s career as a professional baseball player was extraordinary, his post-playing career continued to connect him to the sport he loved. After hanging up his cleats, Valenzuela became a beloved Spanish-language commentator for the Dodgers. His voice and insights added depth to the broadcasts, further endearing him to the fan base that had already admired him for his talents on the mound. In addition to his broadcasting duties, Valenzuela became a part-owner of the Mexican baseball team Tigres de Quintana Roo, showcasing his enduring passion for the sport.
A Stellar MLB Career
Valenzuela’s journey to the MLB began in 1980 when he made his debut for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Just one year later, he had one of the most memorable seasons in baseball history. In 1981, he helped lead the Dodgers to a World Series victory, earned both the National League Rookie of the Year and Cy Young awards, and became the first rookie to lead the league in strikeouts. His unorthodox pitching style, highlighted by his famous screwball, left batters baffled and made him an instant sensation.
Over the course of his 17-year MLB career, Valenzuela played for several teams, including the California Angels, Baltimore Orioles, Philadelphia Phillies, San Diego Padres, and St. Louis Cardinals. However, it was his time with the Dodgers that defined his career. During his tenure with the team, Valenzuela won numerous accolades, including a Gold Glove award and six All-Star selections.
Though his playing career eventually declined in the 1990s, Valenzuela’s influence on the game persisted. His legacy was cemented when the Dodgers retired his number, 34, in a ceremony in August 2023, honoring his contributions to both the team and the sport.
The Los Angeles Dodgers mourn the passing of legendary pitcher Fernando Valenzuela. pic.twitter.com/MXeBlDzDWJ
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 23, 2024
Career Earnings and Net Worth
Fernando Valenzuela’s career earnings reflect the significant impact he had on the sport. At the peak of his career in the late 1980s, Valenzuela signed one of the most lucrative contracts for a pitcher at the time. In 1987, he secured a three-year, $5.5 million deal with the Dodgers, making his annual salary of $1.83 million a record for pitchers. By 1988, his earnings soared even higher, with an annual salary of $2.05 million.
Over the course of his MLB career, Valenzuela earned approximately $17.3 million in salary alone. Despite his career tapering off in the 1990s, his role as a broadcaster and business ventures, such as his stake in the Tigres de Quintana Roo, continued to generate income. At the time of his passing, Valenzuela’s net worth was estimated to be around $6 million.
ALSO READ. Liam Payne Dead: What Was His Net Worth When He Died?
Personal Life and Legacy
Fernando Valenzuela’s personal life was marked by his deep connection to his roots and his family. He married Linda Burgos in 1981, and together they had four children. His son, Fernando Valenzuela Jr., briefly followed in his father’s footsteps, playing in the San Diego Padres and Chicago White Sox organizations.
In 2015, Valenzuela became a naturalized U.S. citizen, further solidifying his bond with the country that had embraced him as a sports icon. Despite his fame and success in the United States, Valenzuela always maintained strong ties to his native Mexico, where he remains a revered figure in the world of sports.
A Lasting Legacy
Fernando Valenzuela’s influence extends beyond his on-field achievements. He became a cultural icon, breaking barriers for Mexican athletes in the MLB and inspiring generations of players from Latin America. His success in both the MLB and the Mexican baseball league is a testament to his talent and dedication.
