Iconic Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher turned team Spanish broadcaster, Fernando Valenzuela, has died, the team announced Tuesday night.
The legend played 17 seasons in MLB … with much of his tenure spent with the Dodgers, who he helped to win a World Series in 1981, when L.A. defeated the New York Yankees.
The Mexico-born superstar became the first player to win the Rookie of the Year and Cy Young in the same season! A nearly unmatchable feat.
As reported earlier this month, the Dodgers announced Fernando would not return to his role with the team’s Spanish broadcast crew this season, saying he was taking time to focus on his health.
The team made the surprising announcement several days after he abruptly left the mic on September 24 against the San Diego Padres.
But, despite what sounded like a potentially serious medical situation, there was talk Fernando would be back next season … which was music to the ears of Dodgers fans.
Unfortunately, Fernando will now have to watch from up above … as his beloved team will face the Yankees in the World Series starting Friday.
