Fernando Valenzuela Net Worth 2024, Salary and Earnings: Fernando Valenzuela, a legendary Mexican pitcher who played 17 MLB seasons, had an estimated net worth of $6 million at the time of his death in 2024, with career earnings peaking at $2.05 million annually and career stats including a 173-153 record and 3.54 ERA.
Key Takeaways
- Fernando Valenzuela had an estimated net worth of $6 million at the time of his death in 2024.
- The Mexican pitcher rose to fame with the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 1980s, sparking “Fernandomania”.
- Valenzuela won the Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in 1981.
- He pitched for 17 MLB seasons from 1980-1997, compiling a 173-153 record and 3.54 ERA.
- Valenzuela became a U.S. citizen in 2015 and worked as a Spanish-language broadcaster for the Dodgers.
Fernando Valenzuela: The Legendary Mexican Pitcher
Fernando Valenzuela, the iconic Mexican pitcher who captivated baseball fans in the 1980s, left an indelible mark on Major League Baseball (MLB) during his 17-year career. From his meteoric rise with the Los Angeles Dodgers to his later years as a journeyman pitcher and broadcaster, Valenzuela’s impact extended far beyond the baseball diamond.
Early Life and Background
Born on November 1, 1960, in Etchohuaquila, a small town in Sonora, Mexico, Fernando Valenzuela Anguamea grew up in a humble farming family. The youngest of 12 children, Valenzuela’s early life was marked by hard work in the fields alongside his parents and siblings. His Mayo indigenous ancestry and rural upbringing shaped his character and work ethic.
Rise to Fame: “Fernandomania”
Valenzuela’s professional baseball journey began in Mexico, where he pitched for the Mayos de Navojoa and Leones de Yucatán. His talent caught the eye of Los Angeles Dodgers scout Mike Brito, leading to his signing with the organization in 1979 for $120,000.
After a brief stint in the minor leagues, Valenzuela made his MLB debut on September 15, 1980. However, it was the 1981 season that catapulted him to stardom. Thrust into the Opening Day starting role due to an injury, Valenzuela shut out the Houston Astros and began a remarkable run that sparked “Fernandomania.”
Career Highlights and Achievements
Valenzuela’s 1981 season was nothing short of spectacular:
- 13-7 record with a 2.48 ERA.
- National League Rookie of the Year
- National League Cy Young Award winner.
- World Series champion with the Dodgers.
He became the first player to win both Rookie of the Year and the Cy Young Award in the same season. Valenzuela’s unique windup, featuring a skyward glance at the apex, became his trademark.
Throughout his career, Valenzuela accumulated numerous accolades:
- 6-time All-Star (1981-1986).
- 2-time Silver Slugger Award winner (1981, 1983).
- Gold Glove Award (1986).
- No-hitter pitched on June 29, 1990.
Fernando Valenzuela Stats and Impact
Over his 17 MLB seasons, Valenzuela compiled impressive statistics:
- 173-153 win-loss record.
- 3.54 career ERA.
- 2,074 strikeouts.
- 113 complete games.
Valenzuela’s impact extended beyond his on-field performance. He became a cultural icon, particularly for Mexican and Mexican-American fans. His success opened doors for future Latin American players in MLB.
Personal Life and Family
Valenzuela married Linda Burgos in 1981. The couple raised four children, splitting their time between Los Angeles and Mexico. His son, Fernando Jr., followed in his footsteps, playing minor league baseball in Mexico and independent leagues in the United States.
Financial Aspects: Salary, Earnings, and Net Worth
At the peak of his career, Valenzuela was one of the highest-paid pitchers in baseball. In 1986, he signed a three-year contract worth $5.5 million, setting a record for pitchers at the time. His annual salary reached $2.05 million in 1988.
Valenzuela’s net worth at the time of his death in 2024 was estimated at $6 million. This wealth came from his playing career, endorsements, and post-retirement work as a broadcaster.
Post-Playing Career and Legacy
After retiring as a player in 1997, Valenzuela remained involved in baseball:
- Joined the Dodgers’ Spanish-language broadcast team in 2003.
- Served on Team Mexico’s coaching staff for multiple World Baseball Classics.
- Purchased the Mexican League team Tigres de Quintana Roo in 2017.
The Dodgers honored Valenzuela by retiring his number 34 in 2023, making him only the second non-Hall of Famer to receive this honor from the team.
Latest News
On October 22, 2024, the baseball world was shocked by the sudden passing of Fernando Valenzuela at the age of 63. The Los Angeles Dodgers announced his death, though the cause was not immediately disclosed. This news came just days before the start of the 2024 World Series, adding a somber note to the baseball season’s pinnacle event.
Valenzuela’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the baseball community. Fans, former teammates, and baseball executives alike shared memories of the pitcher who had captivated audiences with his skill and charisma.
The timing of Valenzuela’s passing was particularly poignant, as it occurred shortly after the Dodgers had honored him by retiring his number 34 in August 2023. This gesture had recognized Valenzuela’s immense contributions to the team and the sport as a whole.
In the weeks leading up to his death, Valenzuela had stepped away from his role as a Spanish-language broadcaster for the Dodgers, citing health reasons. This decision, announced in late September 2024, had raised concerns among fans about his well-being.
The baseball community now mourns the loss of a true legend, remembering Valenzuela not just for his on-field accomplishments, but for his role in bridging cultures and inspiring a generation of Latino players and fans.