"Generations of Mexican American and Latino families in
Los Angeles gathered around televisions and radios,
tracking each pitch Fernando threw. And, in Mexico,
many radio stations were tuned into Dodgers' games
for the first time.
To these communities, Fernando was more than a
baseball player.
He was one of them."
Baseball is in full swing for the 2026 season, and many are tuned in night after night to watch and listen to their favorite teams. In Los Angeles, in April 1981, Fernando Valenzuela, a 20-year-old rookie from Mexico. made his debut as the Dodgers' opener. His team beat the Astros and Valenzuela goes on to win his first eight games. No one had heard of this youngest in a Mexican family of 12 children. No one knew the excitement that he would inspire in the 50,000 fans in attendance in those days. Few pitchers had ever thrown a screwball; it is exactly what he did game after game.
For the first time, Mexicans and Latinos had a hero who looked like they did, and who was an immigrant as they were. They had often faced racism and rejection. Now, they had someone to cheer for and follow on TV and radio game after game. As the baseball world adjusted to Fernando, Fernando did his best to adjust to a new home, a new culture and language. It was difficult. Add to that, a players' strike in June. Fernando went home, not knowing if he would return. Two months later, the strike ended and Fernando was back on the pitcher's mound. His success waned. Would he still be able to help his teammates win an important game in the World Series. It seems he would!
Baseball reporter Nathalie Alonso and artist John Parra have collaborated on another winning picture book biography from the baseball world. Back matter includes notes from both author and illustrator, a note about Latinos and the Dodgers, a description of the screwball and a bibliography. There is also an archival photo of Fernando as he prepares to throw one of his famous screwballs.
Viva, #34!
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