The Great Ones Have One Name

Fernando was a name that just about everyone on Planet Earth knew. Fernando Valenzuela, the iconic baseball legend who transcended sports to become a cultural beacon, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 63. His story, rising from humble beginnings on the fields of rural Mexico to the bright lights of Dodger Stadium, ignited a passion that forever changed the landscape of baseball, both in the United States and Mexico.

“Fernandomania” wasn’t just a phenomenon—it was a movement. In 1981, as Valenzuela took the mound for the Dodgers, he didn’t just throw screwballs; he threw open doors for Latinos and Mexican-Americans who longed for a hero in the face of adversity. His mesmerizing pitching, with a signature glance skyward before unleashing his pitches, symbolized a hope that transcended the ballpark. Valenzuela dominated with such ferocity in that magical rookie season that he earned National League Rookie of the Year, Cy Young, Silver Slugger, and World Series champion honors—all in one year.

Fernando remained much more than a legendary left-handed pitcher in the following years. He was an ambassador of baseball, a voice that bridged cultures and generations, especially through his role as a beloved Dodgers broadcaster. His influence extended beyond the diamond, inspiring countless fans who, to this day, sport his No. 34 jersey and reminisce about the days when Dodger Stadium buzzed with “Viva Fernando” banners swaying in the breeze.

Stan Kasten, president & CEO of the Dodgers, said it best: “He is one of the most influential Dodgers ever and belongs on the Mount Rushmore of franchise heroes. Fernandomania wasn’t just a baseball event but a cultural explosion.” Fans didn’t just witness a pitcher—they witnessed a force of nature.

Fernando Valenzuela’s legacy stretches beyond the statistics, which are themselves astonishing. With a 173-153 career record, a 3.54 ERA, 2,074 strikeouts, and 113 complete games, including 31 shutouts, his place among baseball’s elite was cemented. But his impact was about more than wins and losses. His presence on the mound unified communities gave voice to the voiceless and became an emblem of perseverance.

Even in his later years, Valenzuela stayed connected to the game he loved, continuing to broadcast Dodgers games in Spanish with his trademark dry wit. And off the field, his presence remained quiet but profound. “I just want people to remember me as someone who always gave his best,” he once said, expressing a modest sentiment from a man who gave so much to so many.

His rookie season in 1981 remains one of the most extraordinary in baseball history. He won his first eight starts, captivating the baseball world with five shutouts, striking out 68 batters, and posting an astonishing 0.50 ERA. The excitement was palpable not just in Los Angeles but around the world. He was on the cover of Sports Illustrated, Kellogg’s Corn Flakes, and became the subject of tribute songs. And in those unforgettable moments, “El Toro” captured the hearts of millions.

Fernando Valenzuela wasn’t just a pitcher. He was a bridge between cultures, an icon who made people believe in dreams. His memory will forever be intertwined with the Dodgers, with the sport, and with the countless fans who found in him more than just a ballplayer—they found a hero. It has been rumored that Fernando suffered from cancer, but in typical Fernando Fashion, he did not talk about his illness. R.I.P. Fernando, you are forever cemented in Dodger Lore!

The Case for Jack Flaherty to Start Game 1

Jack Flaherty was targeted as a possible starter for the Dodgers several years ago. They had sought to trade for him when he was with the Cardinals (along with Tommy Baseball). As we all know, Flathery was rumored in many trade scenarios this year at the trade deadline until the Dodgers pulled the trigger. However, before the Dodgers traded for Jack, the Yankees were in active trade negotiations. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Yankees backed out of a deal because of “medical concerns“.

Maybe those concerns were real… or maybe they weren’t. Brusdar Graterol was rejected by the Red Sox almost five years ago because of medical concerns, and 2024 was the only year he had medical issues. According to Rosenthal, the Yankees backed out of a deal because of medical concerns about back issues, but he has pitched well despite the injury.

The issue with Flaherty’s lower back forced him to miss a start at the beginning of July and receive two injections in three weeks. However, Brian Cashman said they didn’t land the former Tigers arm because they couldn’t match the value for a deal. I have a feeling that Jack Flaherty is happy he got to come back home to So Cal, and I would respectfully say that he would love to stick that up the Yankees ass! I certainly advocate starting Jack Flaherty against the Yankees in Game One. He should have a chip on his shoulder and could pitch the game of his life. Also, this gives Yamamoto one more day of rest. Just remember, it was against the Yankees that Yoshi sprained his shoulder and missed three months. He was too excited for that start, and his fastball was about 2 MPH faster. Slow down, Yoshi!

BTW, Alex Vesia and/or the Bazooka are both progressing and either or both, could be on the World Series Roster.

On Freddie Freeman: “Right now, I’m not thinking about game-time decisions,” Freeman said. “I think with this time off, it’s going to be a 100% go for me in Game 1 and we’ll adjust off of that after Game 1. But I don’t think there’s any question in anybody’s mind that I will be in the lineup for Game 1.”

MLB.com has a great Position-by-Position Comparison of both the Dodgers and Yankees HERE.