On Friday, 'Fernandomania' will be immortalized as the Dodgers will retire No. 34 for Fernando Valenzuela.
The former Rookie of the Year said he kept the news that the Dodgers were retiring his number a secret, even from his family.on Friday night will retire the No. 34 worn by legendary left-hander Fernando Valenzuela, breaking precedent to honor one of the most popular players in team history.
"What he accomplished during his playing career, not only on the field but in the community, is extraordinary. He truly lit up the imaginations of baseball fans everywhere. It's hard to envision a player having a greater impact on a fan base than the one Fernando has had.
The Dodgers' first jersey retirement ceremony came on June 4, 1972, when the No. 39 jersey worn by Roy Campanella, the No. 32 jersey worn by Sandy Koufax and the No. 42 jersey worn by Jackie Robinson were retired. Gilliam's jersey was the next to be retired, followed in 1980 by the No. 4 jersey worn by Duke Snider.
Prior to Friday night festivities at Dodgers Stadium, Valenzuela will also be honored at Los Angeles City Hall when the City Council will issue a proclamation declaring the day as Fernando Valenzuela Day in Los Angeles.The celebration of Valenzuela's career will continue Saturday when the first 40,000 ticketed fans will receive a bobblehead of Valenzuela's career and Sunday when the team will give out replicas of Valenzuela's 1981 World Series ring.
Valenzuela made his Dodger debut in 1980, not allowing an earned run in 17 2/3 innings in 10 relief appearances and posting a 2-0 record.
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