The state of California announced that it will be named November 1 as Fernando Valenzuela Day, the same date as the legendary Mexican pitcher's birthday.

California State Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva, who represents parts of Los Angeles and Orange counties, introduced the measure to highlight the impact of Fernando Valenzuela's legacy and what it generated in the Latino and Hispanic community.

Quirk-Silva discussed El Toro's outstanding rookie season that sparked “Fernandomania.”

“Dodger Stadium overflowed, Dodger Stadium exceeded its maximum capacity, Mexican flags were waving, fans wore hats, the mariachi movement resonated in the parking lot,” Quirk-Silva said.

The Los Angeles City Council proclaimed August 11 as “Fernando Valenzuela Day” for the city in 2023.

Following his playing career in the Majors, the Mexican joined the Dodgers' Spanish-language broadcast team in 2003 and spent the next 21 years calling the team's games.

Fernando Valenzuela played 17 seasons for 6 teams, including the Dodgers and the Padres. He finished with 173 wins, 153 losses, a 3.54 ERA, and 2,074 strikeouts.

Fernando Valenzuela and his great legacy in Los Angeles

Fernando Valenzuela had a record of 141-116 with a 3.31 ERA, 1,759 strikeouts, and 2 saves in 331 career appearances for the Dodgers.

The Mexican pitcher debuted in 1980, but it was in 1981 where he had one of the best seasons of his career.

The Dodgers left-hander won the National League Cy Young Award and also the Rookie of the Year Award. He is the only player in Major League history to win both awards in the same season.

He also won a World Series ring that same season. Valenzuela was also selected to six All-Star Games and won a Silver Slugger Award as a hitter.