Legendary Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher and broadcaster Fernando Valenzuela handed in October, however his legacy prevails to at the present time.
The Dodgers icon performed 17 seasons in MLB from 1980-91 and 1993-97. Though he performed for six completely different golf equipment, he spent probably the most time with the Dodgers.
In Los Angeles, he turned the primary participant to win Rookie of the Yr and a Cy Younger in the identical season.
Dodgers Nation’s Antonio Curiel highlights Valenzuela’s mural in Boyle Heights, the place followers expressed how influential “Fernandomania” was for town of Los Angeles.
Edward James Olmos, an actor and activist, detailed the historical past of Valenzuela’s affect on each the neighborhood and Dodgers group.
“Fernando caused a giant change to this neighborhood,” Olmos informed Curiel. “Earlier than Fernando got here to play, Chicanos particularly wouldn’t go to the stadium due to what had occurred in Chavez Ravine. He did an terrible lot for the unification of town.”
Valenzuela is credited with popularizing the sport of baseball amongst Mexican-American followers. “El Toro” turned a hero to many Latino followers and paved the best way for different Mexican gamers to achieve the majors.
For a lot of Mexican followers, Valenzuela was the primary acquainted face they might observe with the Dodgers.
“I felt like he was a part of the household,” stated longtime Dodgers fan Juan Saldana.
To observe the total video, click on right here.
Picture Credit score: Kirby Lee-Imagn Photos
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