Fernando Valenzuela has passed away at the age of 63, the Dodgers announced late Tuesday. The former pitcher had a legendary 18-year career, spending 11 seasons with the Dodgers. He was one of the game’s top pitchers during his time in Los Angeles, earning six All-Star nominations, one Cy Young victory and a World Series championship. While the baseball community and Los Angeles mourn Valenzuela’s passing, let’s remember some of his greatest moments. The left-hander unexpectedly became the Opening Day starter for the World Series-contending Dodgers in 1981. Jerry Reuss, who was expected to start Opening Day for the Dodgers, was injured one day before the 1981 season began. With Reuss sidelined and star Burt Hooton unable to pitch, the Dodgers selected Valenzuela, 20, to pitch for Opening Day.

Dodgers El Toro Fernando Valenzuela 1960-2024 Thank You For The Memories Long Sleeve Shirt

After debuting as a relief pitcher in September 1979, Valenzuela seemed accustomed to being a starting pitcher on the mound. He threw a scoreless complete game against the Houston Astros, who defeated the Dodgers in a one-game playoff the previous season. Valenzuela allowed just five hits with five strikeouts and two walks that day.