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Nearly a year after his passing, Fernando Valenzuela’s legacy now stands tall and vibrant inside Dodger Stadium. A powerful new mural, painted by renowned Mexican American artist Robert Vargas, was unveiled Saturday evening on the loge-level wall, paying tribute to the Dodgers legend whose impact on the game and on the Latino community transcends generations.
The mural, a stunning blend of heritage and heroism, depicts Valenzuela tipping his cap to the heavens in a special Dodgers Mexican-heritage jersey, green sleeve, red sleeve, and a white center, flanked by two dynamic images of him mid-pitch. Vargas, speaking at the unveiling, shared the deeper meaning behind the artwork.
I felt it very important to show that the Latino community has a place within these walls and has had a place within these walls, Vargas said.
He emphasized that the mural is not just about the player, but the enduring spirit of Valenzuela that continues to live in the hearts of fans.
Before Saturday’s game, the Dodgers officially revealed the mural on the Left Field Loge Terrace, accompanied by Valenzuela’s family and former teammates.
What he did in the community is what resonates so much more for me than just the player, but the man, the person that he was, Vargas added.
Valenzuela, affectionately known as “El Toro,” rose from humble beginnings in Etchohuaquila, Mexico. Bursting onto the MLB scene in 1981, he won both Rookie of the Year and the Cy Young Award, electrifying Latino fans across the country and igniting what became known as 'Fernandomania'. His number 34 remains one of the most cherished jerseys at the ballpark.
Among those moved by the tribute was Claudio Campo, who traveled from Phoenix with his son to mark the boy’s 11th birthday.
He was a staple for the people that didn't have anything... what he came from showed that anything is possible, said Campo, whose arm bears a tattoo of Valenzuela’s nickname.
Fans lined up to snap photos in front of the mural, many clutching Valenzuela bobbleheads handed out by the team. Dulce Gonzalez, a longtime supporter, fought back tears.
He was the first Latino player I could truly connect with and be proud of, she said.
Her son Nicolas, donning a red and green Mexican-heritage Dodgers jersey, reflected on Valenzuela’s larger significance.
He really represented triumph over adversity, Nicolas said. He opened the city up to the Dodgers again.
Fernando Valenzuela played for 10 seasons at the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1980 to 1990.
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