Dodgers Honor Fernando Valenzuela in Game 1 of the World Series
As Game 1 of the 2024 World Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Yankees kicks off, the excitement in Dodger Stadium is palpable. This year’s matchup is as star-studded as they come, with legendary franchises and top-tier players like Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge, both of whom had historic regular seasons. However, the celebration is underscored by a heartfelt tribute: the Dodgers have dedicated this series to the memory of one of their all-time greats, Fernando Valenzuela, who passed away earlier this week.
Valenzuela, who captivated fans throughout the 1980s with his unique screwball and passionate play, is honored by the Dodgers in more ways than one tonight. Before the first pitch, Orel Hershiser, another iconic Dodgers pitcher and Valenzuela’s former teammate, took the mound for the ceremonial pitch. Dodger Stadium held a poignant moment of silence, joined by Valenzuela’s family on the field, as fans and players alike paid their respects. In tribute, the Dodgers will wear a black patch on their uniforms for the rest of the season.
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The Dodgers-Yankees rivalry has a deep history, meeting now for the 12th time in the World Series, the most between any two teams in Major League Baseball. As the crowd roared, Gerrit Cole and Jack Flaherty took the mound as starting pitchers for the Yankees and Dodgers, respectively. Yet, beyond the players, this game felt like a celebration of baseball’s legacy, with Valenzuela's influence felt across the stadium.
Adding to the emotional backdrop, the Dodgers' young pitcher Brent Honeywell, who also throws a screwball, recently shared a meaningful connection with Valenzuela. Honeywell recalled how, just last season, he had an unforgettable conversation with Valenzuela. They discussed the intricacies of the screwball and shared stories about their journeys in the sport. Honeywell described the exchange as one of his "fondest baseball memories," illustrating the impact Valenzuela had not just on fans, but on players who admired him as a mentor and icon.
As the Fall Classic unfolds, the Dodgers are energized by both their stellar lineup and their dedication to honoring Valenzuela’s legacy.
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