The city of Los Angeles proclaimed Friday “Fernando Valenzuela Day,” honoring the Dodger legend as the team retired his number.

The city council chambers was filled with fans of the 62-year-old Mexican pitcher, as Valenzuela addressed the city in a Dodger blue suit.

“I don’t have many words to say,” Valenzuela said Friday. “I played 11 years here and then after I continued to work but with another department. Thank you to the team for giving the opportunity to be in this beautiful city.”

Before the Dodgers began their Friday game against the Colorado Rockies, a ceremony was held for Valenzuela, as a stage filled with Dodger greats sat in front of the mound at Dodger Stadium.

From his former teammates Sandy Koufax and Mike Scioscia, to former Spanish radio announcer Jaime Jarrin, Valenzuela was surrounded by his Dodger family as many spoke about his impact on the team and city.

His former teammates Orel Hershiser and Manny Mota were standing atop the Dodger Stadium “Ring of Honor” above the Loge section, lifting the curtain and revealing Valenzuela’s plaque number, which now sits between Koufax’s No. 32 and Roy Campanella’s No. 39.

As with the other 11 retired numbers, no other Dodger will be allowed to don the No. 34 again.

The Dodger Stadium “Fernandomania” weekend continues Saturday, with a bobblehead giveaway and Sunday with a World Series ring giveaway.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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