The Angels. The Dodgers announced Saturday that one of the most popular pitchers in franchise history, Mexican left-hander Fernando Valenzuela, will see his number 34 retired this summer with a three-day celebration. The announcement was made at the 2023 Dodgers FanFest, presented by Budweiser.
“Fernandomania” weekend will take place August 11-13, when the Dodgers host the Rockies at Dodger Stadium. The festivities will kick off with a special ceremony on Friday, giving away a collectible bobblehead on Saturday and a replica of Valenzuela’s 1981 World Series championship ring on Sunday.
Valenzuela was a member of two World Series-winning teams, winning Rookie of the Year and Cy Young awards in 1981, was called to six All-Star Games and even won two Silver Sluggers (1981, 1983) during his 11 years with the Dodgers between 1980 and 1990.
“To be part of a group that includes so many legends is a great honor,” Valenzuela said. “But also to the fans – for the support they have given me as a player and working for the Dodgers. This is also for them. I am happy for the fans and for all the people who have followed my career. You are going to be very excited to know that my number 34 will be retired.
NBA: Luka Doncic has been ruled out for this afternoon’s game between the Mavericks and the Golden State Warriors
The number 34 of the Mexican joins a group that includes Pee Wee Reese (#1), Tommy Lasorda (#2), Duke Snider (#4), Gil Hodges (#14). Jim Gilliam (#19), Don Sutton (#20), Walter Alston (#24), Sandy Koufax (#32), Roy Campanella (#39), Jackie Robinson (#42), Don Drysdale (#53) and the Hall of Fame storytellers Vin Scully and Jaime Jarrín.
#BASEBALL #Los #Angeles #Dodgers #retire #Fernando #Valenzuelas #number #year