The Dodgers honored the 40th anniversary of Fernandomania today. They fell far short of what they could have done to truly honor the man and his legendary status across the country: They missed the opportunity to retire Fernando Valenzuela’s number 34.
Oscar Martinez
I was born in the shadow of Dodger Stadium and immediately drenched in Dodger Blue. Chavez Ravine is my baseball cathedral, Vin Scully was the golden voice of summer all my life, and Tommy Lasorda remains the greatest Dodgers manager ever. My favorite things are coffee, beer, and the Dodgers beating the Giants. I also blog about my baseball card hobby at All Trade Bait, All the Time.
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Based on his career, his numbers are not good enough for the hall, and outside of Jr. Gilliam, all of the retired Dodger numbers are those of Hall of Famers. Personally I agree with that. The Yankees have retired 20 numbers, including 7 of players not in the hall. 1-10 are all retired. #9 for Maris, who other than hitting 61 HR’s in 61 to pass Ruth, really did not have that great of a career. On a social impact level, Fernando brought the Hispanic community together as Dodger fans. His impact there is unmistakable. But is it enough to retire his number? On the other hand, no one has worn # 34 since he left. So de-facto it is retired. I look at it this way, I think at some point, probably when Fernando leaves the broadcast booth they will retire the number. He also has a shot at going in the hall as a broadcaster. He will never get in as a player. He just does not have the numbers. Hershiser is in the same boat. Not strong enough stats over his career to warrant election.