Fernando Valenzuela News: Dave Roberts Speaks on the Impact of Dodgers Legend
Friday before facing the Rockies, the Los Angeles Dodgers retired Fernando Valenzuela’s 34. Ahead of the festivities, manager Dave Roberts beautifully explained the impact of Valenzuela on Los Angeles and on the world of baseball.
“It’s a big day. I think it’s certainly long overdue. His legacy, impact, is going to last forever. It’s lasted such a long time, not only for the Dodgers, but all of Major League Baseball. He’s been an inspiration for many people. Just to be able to break barriers, be so humble while doing it and so accomplished. I consider him a friend and I don’t think he’s going to be too emotional with this.”
Via SportsNet LA
Every time Valenzuela took the mound, it was a happy occasion. Before Valenzuela, baseball didn’t have many Mexican players. Now there are Mexican-born players all across the league. During the World Baseball Classic, the team from Mexico held its own, losing in the semifinals. The success of Valenzuela in the major leagues increased the popularity of baseball everywhere, particularly in Latin America.
Valenzuela never said the wrong thing to the media though he had a serious language barrier. If he didn’t have an answer to a reporter’s question, he would skip it. When he came to the Dodgers, he knew no English and Hall of Fame Spanish broadcaster Jaime Jarrin served as Valenzuela’s interpreter.
Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
