Biography of Fernando Valenzuela: How old was he and what was the cause of his death?

The recent death of Fernando Valenzuela at the age of 63, which occurred on October 22, 2024, has shocked the world of baseball and its countless fans. This outstanding Mexican baseball player, known for his exceptional career as a pitcher in the Major Leagues, left an indelible mark on the history of the sport.

Since his debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1980, Valenzuela became an icon, not only for his talent on the mound, but also for his ability to connect with the Latino community in the United States.

His pitching style, nicknamed ‘the Valenzuela phenomenon’, not only attracted media attention but also helped popularize baseball among a public that felt represented by his success.

As news of his passing spread, many began to delve into the search for Fernando Valenzuela’s biography and details of his life.

Who was Fernando Valenzuela?

Fernando Valenzuela , affectionately known as ‘El Toro’, is an iconic figure in Mexican baseball whose influence has transcended the sport. Born on November 1, 1960, in Etchohuaquila, Sonora, Valenzuela made his Major League debut on September 15, 1980, and quickly established himself as an outstanding pitcher with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

During his 17 seasons in the Major Leagues , he not only stood out for his ability on the mound, but also became a symbol of pride for the Latino community in the United States.

Throughout his career, Valenzuela accumulated numerous accolades, including the prestigious Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in 1981, becoming the first National League player to achieve both awards in the same season.

Furthermore, his contribution to the Dodgers’ 1981 World Series victory over the New York Yankees solidified his legacy in baseball history. Throughout his career, he was selected to the All-Star Game six times , reflecting his consistency and outstanding talent.

In an act of recognition of his cultural and sporting impact, the Los Angeles City Council declared August 11 as ‘Fernando Valenzuela Day’, while the Dodgers retired his number 34 in 2023, ensuring that his legacy lives on in the collective memory of baseball fans.

Cause of death of Fernando Valenzuela

Fernando Valenzuela, the iconic Mexican baseball player, passed away on October 22, 2024 at the age of 63. The news was confirmed by the Los Angeles Dodgers, who expressed their deep sorrow for the loss of one of their most iconic players.

Although the team did not provide specific details about the cause of his death , it is known that Valenzuela had been dealing with health issues in the months leading up to his passing. This situation led him to retire from his work as a commentator, prioritizing his personal well-being. 

Valenzuela’s passing has sparked a wave of tributes on social media, with fans and colleagues remembering his impact both on and off the field. His story, marked by his arrival in Los Angeles at age 19 and his rise to fame in the 1980s, remains a source of inspiration for many.