43 years ago, on a day like today, Fernando Valenzuela took the mound at Dodgers Stadium and with a masterful control began to change the course of a team that was sinking in the World Series. That October 23, 1981 marked the start of the "Fernandomania" that culminated in an unexpected title, with a comeback to win six games 4-2 over the New York Yankees, the same rival the Dodgers will face 43 years later.
In that famous game, Valenzuela threw 147 pitches, 92 of them in the strike zone, allowing nine hits, granting seven walks and giving up four runs, but he managed to record six strikeouts and maintain a 5-4 lead. The team's morale soared with his outstanding performance, leading the Dodgers to not lose again in the World Series. The Mexican received the Rookie of the Year and National League Cy Young awards that season.
"I'm never afraid when I'm pitching," 'the Bull' Valenzuela used to say. Those words could be a mantra for current pitchers facing the Yankees in honor of the legacy of the unforgettable Mexican, who passed away on October 22 in Los Angeles.
Despite Valenzuela's absence, the spirit of the Los Angeles team will be present in the World Series starting this Friday, where the Dodgers will rely on Japanese player Shohei Ohtani as a key piece in their team. Both players, Valenzuela in 1981 and Ohtani today, led the team with exceptional performances.
However, a weakness faced by Dave Roberts' team is the lack of stability in their pitching staff, an aspect they will need to improve to face the strong hitters of the 'Bronx Bombers' and thus fight for a new title in this World Series.
