Dodgers legend Fernando Valenzuela passes away at age 63

                     Fernando Valenzuela having fun at the Los Angeles Dodgers Fan Fest. Photo by Jerry Kelly/TGSportstv1.

 LOS ANGELES, CA – Champion. Cy Young. Hero. Dodger and cultural legend. These are some of the words used to describe the iconic Fernando Valenzuela as the sports world, Los Angeles, and Latinos worldwide mourn his loss after a silent battle with cancer on Tuesday.

Fernandomania swept across the city in 1981 when the unknown left-handed 19-year-old debuted with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Mexican immigrant didn’t know the culture or the language at the time but he let his pitching do his talking.

“Fernando Valenzuela has pitched a no-hitter, if you own a sombrero throw it in the sky,” said Dodger broadcaster Vin Skully.

Valenzuela helped bridge cultures and communities when he pitched, drawing large crowds of Mexican fans who saw a hero who looked like and represented them. Dodger Stadium was always buzzing with excitement when the pudgy teenage phenom took the mound as Mexican-Americans flocked to the stands.

Starting his career with an 8-0 record and 0.54 ERA, the young sensation won both N.L. Rookie of the Year and CY Young awards during his legendary 1981 season.

Ironically his death comes days before the Dodgers and New York Yankees face off in the World Series, the first clash between these two titans of baseball since Valenzuela’s rookie season. The Dodgers won that series after losing twice to the Yankees in 1977 and 1978 fall classic.

When Valenzuela spoke to fans and media it was often through a translator, similar to the Dodgers newest superstar Shohei Ohtani. Something that fans both local and abroad can relate to.

After celebrating Valenzuela last year retiring his Number 34, the Dodgers announced they will be wearing a patch with his last name and number on their sleeves in the World Series starting Friday.

While Valenzuela’s pitching exploits were nearly 40 years ago, the younger generation of Dodger fans may recognize him from the Spanish radio broadcast that he voiced for more than 20 years. After two decades leading the broadcast, he stepped down in September for unknown reasons, which have now been determined to be a liver cancer diagnosis.

“He’s not only a hero but an icon for the Dodger family and the world,” said Vivian Viscarra as she paid her respects at the growing memorial outside of Dodger Stadium.

Valenzuela leaves behind his wife of 43 years Linda Burgos-Valenzuela, four children, and seven grandchildren.