Los Angeles, June 2, 2025 – Just 25 minutes ago, the Los Angeles Dodgers made an emotional announcement that has reignited heartfelt memories across the baseball world. The team revealed a handwritten letter left by Dodgers legend Fernando Valenzuela, who passed away on October 22, 2024. The letter, written for future Dodgers players, was kept private by his family until today — and after reading it, many fans were moved to tears.
Remembering Fernando Valenzuela – A Baseball and Cultural Icon
Fernando Valenzuela remains one of the most beloved figures in Major League Baseball history. Known for his mesmerizing windup and fierce determination, Valenzuela broke onto the scene with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1981. That year, he led the team to a World Series championship and became the first player ever to win both the Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in the same season.
But Valenzuela was more than just statistics — he was a symbol. “Fernandomania” swept across the United States and Mexico, inspiring millions of fans, particularly in the Latino community. He showed the world that a young man from Sonora, Mexico could become a legend in one of the biggest sports markets in America.
Dodgers Unveil His Final Letter
Although Valenzuela passed away peacefully in Los Angeles in October 2024 at the age of 63, his family and the Dodgers organization had kept a personal letter he wrote just weeks before his passing. This morning, the team released the letter to the public, honoring his wish to leave a final message for the next generation of Dodgers.
The letter reads:
“To every player who wears the Dodgers jersey after me,
You are not just playing baseball — you are continuing a tradition built by passion, sacrifice, and unity. This team means more than wins and losses. It means family.
Every time you step on the field, do it with heart. Respect the game, respect your teammates, and respect the fans.
I will be watching from above, proud of every step you take in Dodger Blue.
– Fernando Valenzuela”
Fans React with Emotion
News of the letter’s release triggered an outpouring of emotion from fans across Los Angeles, Mexico, and the entire baseball world. At Dodger Stadium, a spontaneous memorial formed near the main gate, where fans left flowers, candles, photos, and jerseys with the number 34 — Valenzuela’s iconic number, officially retired by the team in 2023.
“My father and I cried reading it,” said Alejandro Mendez, a 28-year-old fan from Boyle Heights. “He was our hero growing up. Even after his passing, he’s still inspiring young players and fans.”
On social media, the hashtags #GraciasFernando, #DodgersLegend, and #ValenzuelaForever quickly began trending worldwide.
His Legacy Beyond the Mound
While Valenzuela’s numbers were impressive — including 173 career wins, six All-Star appearances, and a World Series ring — his true impact was cultural. He brought millions of Latino fans to baseball and proved that the sport belonged to everyone.
After retiring, Valenzuela remained involved in the Dodgers organization, working as a broadcaster, mentor, and community ambassador. His influence stretched across generations, from veteran fans who watched him pitch in the ’80s to young players who now dream of following his footsteps.
His legacy was immortalized when the Dodgers retired his jersey in August 2023, a moment that brought tears to many — and now, in 2025, his voice continues to echo through his final written words.
Final Thoughts
Fernando Valenzuela may have passed away in October 2024, but his message and spirit are still alive. Today’s letter release is more than a tribute — it is a torch being passed on. It reminds every Dodgers player of the responsibility they carry, and it reminds every fan why they fell in love with the game in the first place.
As long as baseball lives in Los Angeles, Fernando Valenzuela’s legacy will remain eternal — not just in stats or highlight reels, but in the hearts of those who believe in dreams, determination, and Dodger Blue.
