Dodgers' Fernando Valenzuela abruptly leaves broadcast booth: report

According to Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group, Fernando Valenzuela, the legendary Dodgers pitcher who became a popular host, has reportedly retired indefinitely from the team's Spanish-language broadcast booth.

Plunkett mentioned the news Wednesday before the Dodgers' 4-3 win over the San Diego Padres.

The Dodgers declined to provide a reason for Valenzuela's absence. According to Plunkett, Valenzuela likely won't return for playoff broadcasts.

Valenzuela's career began in 1981 when he delivered one of MLB's most remarkable rookie seasons and galvanized the city of Los Angeles with “Fernandomania.” That year, Valenzuela accomplished something no one had ever done before: He won both the National League Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year honors in the same season.

His success on the mound didn't end there.

Valenzuela was instrumental in leading the Dodgers to victory in the 1981 World Series by defeating the New York Yankees in six games. His performances that season secured his status as a Dodgers legend and cemented his legacy not only in Los Angeles, but throughout baseball history.

Valenzuela finished his career with a 173-153 record and a 3.54 earned run average in 453 games (424 starts).

While he spent most of his career with the Dodgers, Valenzuela also played for the Angels, Orioles, Phillies, Padres and Cardinals.

Even after his retirement, Valenzuela's influence continued to resonate with fans. In 2001, the Dodgers honored him with a bobblehead alongside icons like Tommy Lasorda and Kirk Gibson as part of their “Dodger Greats” series. The bobblehead celebration coincided with the 20th anniversary of “Fernandomania” and reminded everyone how significant Valenzuela’s contributions were to the Dodgers.

In August 2023, the Dodgers went one step further and retired Valenzuela's No. 34 jersey during a three-day “Fernandomania” weekend at Dodger Stadium. He became only the twelfth player in the team's history to have his number retired. In addition to this honor, Valenzuela was also inducted into the Dodgers' Ring of Honor, making him the 14th member of that prestigious group.

Although Valenzuela's absence from broadcasting is notable, his impact on the Dodgers remains.

The recent induction of Walter O'Malley into the Ring of Honor has grown the club to 15 members, but Valenzuela's spot is solidified. Whether as a pitcher, broadcaster or fan favorite, his impact on the Dodgers and the city of Los Angeles remains strong and continues to inspire fans long after his playing days have ended.