RIP Fernando Valenzuela - you electrified Los Angeles in 1981

[StarSong]

Fernandomania - I remember it well. A baseball rookie season like none before or since, including winning his first eight starts that year, five by shutout.

He's the only player to have won the NL Cy Young and Rookie of the Year awards in the same season, plus he capped it off with a World Series Championship ring that year.

Gone too soon at 63. You were a gentleman and a gentle man on and off the field. Thanks for the memories. ♥

 

[Jocko]

Dang it. RIP.

 

[Nathan]

I was shocked and saddened to hear of his passing, on this morning's news.



RIP Fernando Valenzuela .

 

[ChiroDoc]

I couldn't agree more, StarSong. We used to catch Dodger games at Chavez Ravine in the dearly '80s after Fernando had burst upon the scene. He was galvanizing to watch! He had loads of natural talent and a unique delivery. The Dodgers have had a history of fascinating and phenomenal pitchers, and F.V. was certainly up there in the top echelon.

 

[Irishdude]

Very sad news. I was a Yankees fan and he was a Yankee killer, but he always played with class and enthusiasm. So many great Dodger pitchers!

 

[OldFeller]

I can't hear his name without this song coming to mind because my brother would sing the refrain "Can you hear the drums Fernando" whenever he took the mound.