California declared Nov. 1 as Fernando Valenzuela Day, the pitcher's birthday. Valenzuela died in October at 63 shortly before the Dodgers' 2024 World Series matchup. Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva introduced the declaration to honor Valenzuela's impact on Latino and Hispanic communities. The Los Angeles City Council had proclaimed Aug. 11 in 2023 when the Dodgers retired his No. 34 and added him to the Dodger Stadium Ring of Honor. Valenzuela debuted in 1980 after signing from Mexico, won 1981 Cy Young and Rookie of the Year awards, helped the Dodgers win the 1981 World Series, spent most of his career with Los Angeles, retired in 1997, became a Spanish-language broadcaster, and received tributes, jersey patches and murals.
The state of California has declared Nov. 1 as "Fernando Valenzuela Day," which coincides with the late Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher's birthday. Valenzuela passed away last October at the age 63, just three days before the Dodgers faced the New York Yankees in Game 1 of the 2024 World Series. California State Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva introduced the measure to highlight the positive impact Valenzuela had on the Latino and Hispanic community.
Valenzuela made his MLB debut in 1980 after signing with the Dodgers out of Mexico. The following season saw him earn an All-Star Game selection, as well as win the National League Cy Young Award, Rookie of the Year honors and a Silver Slugger. Valenzuela's remarkable rookie season was capped off by helping the Dodgers win the 1981 World Series. Valenzuela spent 11 of his 17 MLB seasons with the Dodgers.
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