Fernando Valenzuela, a celebrated figure in the world of baseball, passed away due to septic shock, as revealed by his death certificate. The document, obtained by TMZ last month, also listed decompensated alcoholic cirrhosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis cirrhosis as contributing factors to the 63-year-old’s demise. Valenzuela, a former Dodgers pitcher, later transitioned into a career as a baseball broadcaster. His cremated remains now rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park.
Valenzuela’s death occurred on October 22, 2024, when he was 63 years old. TMZ reported that the medical examiner suspected Valenzuela had been suffering from Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a rare brain disorder.
Over his 17-season career in Major League Baseball (MLB), Valenzuela played for several teams, including the Angels, Orioles, Phillies, Padres, and Cardinals, following his tenure with the Dodgers. His impressive career included being named a six-time All-Star and winning the CY Young and Rookie of the Year awards in 1981.
Valenzuela’s first Silver Slugger award came in 1981, the same year he won the World Series. Throughout his MLB career, he won 173 games, struck out 2,074 players, and maintained a 3.54 ERA.
After retiring from the field, Valenzuela spent 22 years as a Spanish language broadcaster for the Dodgers. He stepped down from this role in September to concentrate on his health.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred paid tribute to Valenzuela, stating, “Fernando Valenzuela was one of the most impactful players of his generation. His rookie season, characterized by his unique pitching style, sparked ‘Fernandomania’ in the U.S. and his native Mexico.” Manfred also acknowledged Valenzuela’s contribution to the Dodgers’ broadcasting team, where he helped cultivate a new generation of baseball fans.
Valenzuela’s legacy extends beyond his achievements on the field. As a member of the Dodgers’ broadcasting team for over two decades, he played a significant role in reaching out to a new generation of fans and fostering their love for the game. His influence and impact on Latino fans, in particular, have made him a cherished figure in Dodger history.