Legendary Mexican pitcher Fernando Valenzuela.
Photo: Rick Stewart/Getty Images
The Los Angeles Dodgers announced at their FanFest that they will finally retire the number 34 of the legendary pitcher, Fernando Valenzuela.. The tribute to the Mexican will arrive on the weekend of August 11 to 13 at Dodger Stadium, where his number will become eternal as it was for decades since it was never used again. All the fans were waiting for this moment, which took too long to arrive, but it will finally come true.
Valenzuela retired 26 years ago and left the best memories at Dodger Stadium where he witnessed “Fernandomania” with his fans.and the removal of his number was practically a popular outcry in the city of Los Angeles.
Stan Kasten himself, president of the Los Angeles ninth, admitted in an interview that the withdrawal of Fernando Valenzuela’s number was one of the questions he was asked the most.
“What he has accomplished during his playing career, not only on the field but also in the community, is extraordinary. He really ignited the imagination of baseball fans everywhere. It’s hard to imagine a player having a bigger impact on a fan base than Fernando has had.Kasten reiterated.
Fernando Valenzuela will be an eternal Dodger
Fernando Valenzuela’s number “34” will take its place among those previously displayed at the left field club level: Pee Wee Reese (1), Tommy Lasorda (2), Duke Snider (4), Gil Hodges (14). Jim Gilliam (19), Don Sutton (20), Walter Alston (24), Sandy Koufax (32), Roy Campanella (39), Jackie Robinson (42), Don Drysdale (53) and Hall of Famers Vin Scully and Jaime Jarrin.
The “Fernandomania” was unleashed by Fernando Valenzuela during his stay with the Dodgers in which he had the opportunity to be part of a pair of World Series champion teams, won the 1981 Rookie of the Year and Cy Young Awards, was selected to six All-Star teams and even won two Silver Slugger Awards (1981, 1983) during his 11 years with the Dodgers. from 1980-90.
Fernando Valenzuela’s reaction
“Being part of the group that includes so many legends is a great honor.“, expressed the legendary Fernando Valenzuela. “But also to the fans: the support you’ve given me as a player and working for the Dodgers, this is for them as well. I am happy for all the fans and all the people who have followed my career. You will be very excited to know that my No. 34 is being retired.“He continued excitedly.
The festivities in honor of Fernando Valenzuela will begin with the Ring of Honor ceremony on Friday, August 11 at night., a collector’s edition bobblehead on Saturday night and a replica of the “Fernandomania” creator’s 1981 World Series ring on Sunday. In the same way, many more surprises are expected that will be announced soon.
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