Considered a baseball legend, Fernando Valenzuela, nicknamed “El Toro”, not only stood out for his skill on the field, but also accumulated a great fortune during his professional career, his career is admirable.
Born on November 1, 1960 in Etchohuaquila, Mexico, Valenzuela managed to transcend borders and become a benchmark in the Major Leagues. His most brilliant time was with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the team with which he achieved fame.
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Valenzuela’s success was not only limited to his performances as a pitcher, but his charisma allowed him to win the affection of the public in the United States and Mexico, consolidating his legacy.
How much is Fernando Valenzuela’s fortune valued?
During his career, Fernando Valenzuela managed to accumulate a fortune estimated at 6 million dollars. His financial success came primarily from his contract with the Dodgers and several endorsement deals that strengthened his public image.
Although his Major League salary was significant, Valenzuela’s charisma allowed him to attract sports associations and brands, which increased his income. His work as a sports commentator also added to his wealth, diversifying his sources of earnings.
In addition to baseball, Valenzuela invested in academies in Mexico, supporting the development of young talent. His commitment to community causes and the empowerment of Latino athletes consolidated his legacy beyond sports.
What is known about the life of Fernando Valenzuela?
Fernando Valenzuela, known as “El Toro,” was a legendary Mexican baseball player who played 17 seasons in the Major Leagues, mainly with the Los Angeles Dodgers. His career was highlighted by a record of 173 wins and 153 losses, with an ERA of 3.54.
Famous for his peculiar throwing style, Valenzuela was one of the few pitchers who mastered Screwball, a technique he learned in 1979. In 1981, he unleashed “Fernandomania” after winning eight consecutive games, which led him to become a superstar.
Valenzuela is the only player to win the Cy Young and Rookie of the Year awards in the same season, cementing his legacy in world baseball.
In 1981, Fernando Valenzuela married Linda Burgos, a teacher originally from Yucatán, Mexico. During the off-season baseball seasons, the family divided their time between Etchohuaquila, Sonora, and Mérida, Yucatán, their place of residence. The couple had four children.
One of his sons, Fernando Jr., nicknamed “The Little Bull”He followed in his father’s footsteps and played for the San Diego Padres and the Chicago White Sox. Currently, he continues his career in Mexico’s minor leagues and independent leagues.
Valenzuela became a US citizen on July 22, 2015 at a ceremony in Los Angeles. On September 30, 2024, he was hospitalized and, unfortunately, he died on October 22, 2024 after several weeks hospitalized.
What did Valenzuela die from?
According to ESPN, Fernando Valenzuela died due to multi-organ collapse that occurred while he was hospitalized. From the beginning of his hospitalization, the family of the legendary “Toro” asked him to keep the details about his illness private.
Liver diseases, which affect the liver, can cause a range of symptoms including fatigue, nausea, vomiting and itchy skin. These conditions prevent the liver from functioning properly, aggravating the patient’s health status over time.