The Dodgers confirmed Wednesday that Spanish-language broadcaster Fernando Valenzuela, apparently struck ill during a Padres game, will sit out the rest of the season.
The team acknowledged the decision without specifying the storied pitcher’s health problem.
“Fernando Valenzuela has stepped away from the Dodger broadcast booth for the remainder of this year to focus on his health,” according to a statement from the team. “He and his family truly appreciate the love and support of fans as he aims to return for the 2025 season, and they have asked for privacy during this time.”
Various media reports surfaced earlier this week indicating that Valenzuela, 63, left the broadcast booth Sept. 24 during the Dodgers Stadium series with the Padres and was hospitalized, although no reason was provided.
Valenzuela burst onto the national scene in 1981 when he won his first eight games, five by shutout, and became the only player to win the Cy Young Award and the Rookie of the Year Award in the same season.
He drew thousands of Mexican-American fans to Dodger Stadium and stadiums throughout the country, sparking a craze known as Fernandomania.
He finished his career with a 173-153 record and a 3.54 ERA and a no-hitter, in 1990. He pitched in 453 games and made 424 starts. His No. 34 is one of just 12 numbers retired by the Dodgers.
After leaving the Dodgers following the 1990 season, he pitched for five teams, including Padres from 1995-96 and part of 1997.
He retired from baseball in 1997 and has spent 21 seasons as a broadcaster, teamed most recently with Pepe Yniguez and Jose Mota for the Dodgers.
The Padres, if they win their Wild Card Series against the Braves, will meet the Dodgers again Saturday to begin one of the two National League Division Series.
