Fernando Valenzuela steps away from Dodgers broadcasts
Aug 11, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Fernando Valenzuela (34) speaks during a news conference prior to his jersey retirement ceremony at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Dodgers announced Wednesday that team legend and Spanish-language radio broadcaster Fernando Valenzuela is stepping away from his duties for the remainder of the season.
In a statement, the Dodgers confirmed that Valenzuela will not be a part of the team’s Spanish broadcasts during the postseason for health reasons. However, he is expected to return to the broadcast booth for 2025.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 2, 2024
“Fernando Valenzuela has stepped away from the Dodger broadcast booth for the remainder of this year to focus on his health,” the statement read. “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.”
Reports emerged Tuesday that Valenzuela had been hospitalized with an unspecified health issue.
The 63-year-old Valenzuela is still best remembered for his legendary playing career. He pitched for the Dodgers for 11 seasons from 1980-1990. The left-hander made six All-Star appearances during that time. He was the NL Rookie of the Year in 1981 and won the Cy Young Award that season while leading the Dodgers to a World Series title.