Los Angeles Dodgers great Fernando Valenzuela passed away due to septic shock last month, as reported by TMZ Sports. The 63-year-old pitcher died shortly before the Dodgers won the 2024 World Series, and he had recently stepped away from his broadcasting duties with the team. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office listed decompensated alcoholic cirrhosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis cirrhosis as underlying causes of his death, with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease also listed as a contributing factor. Valenzuela had an illustrious career, winning the Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in 1981, and helping the Dodgers secure two World Series titles during his 17-year career.
Septic shock, which occurs when organs malfunction and blood pressure drops to dangerously low levels, was cited as the immediate cause of Fernando Valenzuela’s death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that at least 350,000 people in the U.S. die from the condition. Valenzuela’s passing was unexpected, as it was anticipated that he would return to his broadcasting duties during the Dodgers’ World Series run before his death. In addition to his time with the Dodgers, Valenzuela also pitched for several other teams during his career, including the California Angels, Baltimore Orioles, Philadelphia Phillies, San Diego Padres, and St. Louis Cardinals.
Fernando Valenzuela’s legacy in baseball is solidified by his achievements on the field, including winning the Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in 1981, as well as helping the Dodgers secure two World Series titles. His career spanned 17 years and he was widely regarded as one of the best pitchers of his era. Valenzuela’s impact on the game extended beyond his on-field performance, as he also made a name for himself in broadcasting after retiring from baseball, working with the Dodgers in a Spanish-language capacity.
Valenzuela’s death shocked the baseball community, as fans and former teammates mourned the loss of a legend. The news of his cause of death shed light on the health issues he was facing in his final days, including septic shock and cirrhosis. Despite these underlying health conditions, Valenzuela’s contributions to the sport of baseball will always be remembered and celebrated. His accomplishments on the field and his post-playing career in broadcasting have left a lasting impact on the game and the Dodgers organization.
The Los Angeles Dodgers and the entire baseball world mourned the loss of Fernando Valenzuela, an iconic figure in the sport. His impact on the game will forever be remembered, with his Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year honors in 1981 standing as a testament to his talent and success on the field. Valenzuela’s World Series victories with the Dodgers further solidified his place in baseball history, as he played a key role in bringing championships to Los Angeles. His passing serves as a reminder of the impact he had on the game and the hearts of those who knew him.
As fans and former teammates pay tribute to Fernando Valenzuela, his contributions to the game of baseball will continue to be celebrated. His sudden passing and the revelation of his cause of death have brought to light the health struggles he faced in his final days. Despite these challenges, Valenzuela’s legacy as a baseball legend and broadcasting pioneer will endure, leaving a lasting impact on the sport and the lives of those who knew him. The Dodgers and baseball community will continue to honor and remember his legacy for years to come.
