The former professional baseball pitcher Fernando Valenzuela had an impressive net worth of $6 million at the time of his passing on October 22, 2024. He signed a remarkable contract worth $5.5 Million for a pitcher in the league’s history then.
Born on November 1, 1960, he gained recognition for his exceptional performance at the Los Angeles Dodgers.
A Mexican-American baseball player Fernando, began his professional baseball career in 1977 with the Mayos De Navojoa and rose to prominence over the years.
His unique pitching style also established him as a beloved figure in the sports world.
Also known as “El Toro“, Fernando Valenzuela, took his last breath at the age of 63 in Los Angeles.
While his family has not revealed the reason for his death, it is known that he suffered from severe liver complications.
Reports indicate that Valenzuela spent weeks in intensive care before suffering multiple organ failure, leading to his demise.
Fernando Valenzuela Signed the Most High Value Contract Worth $5.5 Million for a Pitcher
The veteran MLB pitcher Fernando Valenzuela had an outstanding professional career spanning 17 seasons from 1980 to 1997.
His total earnings during his time in the MLB speaks volumes about his significant impact on the sports world.
At the peak of his career in 1987, he signed the most high-value deal for a pitcher in the league’s history.
Valenzuela finalized a profitable three-year contract worth $5.5 million with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
He also set the record by earning an annual salary of $1.83 million, which increased to $2.05 million in 1988.
The Dodgers will wear a Fernando Valenzuela uniform patch in the World Series and during the 2025 season. pic.twitter.com/5rqdd6huUj
— ESPN (@espn) October 24, 2024
Throughout his extensive career, the former pitcher accumulated a noteworthy salary of around $17.3 million.
Following his retirement from MLB, Fernando transitioned into a highly admired Spanish-language commentator for the Dodgers.
Thus, the change in the career trajectory likely enhanced his already high financial standing.
In addition to his broadcasting career, he co-owned a Mexican baseball team, Tigres de Quintana Roo, further elevating his wealth.
Fernando Valenzuela Owned a Lavish $5.2 Million Mansion Reflecting His Extravagant Wealth!
The retired baseball pitcher, Fernando, generated substantial wealth through endorsement projects and ventures alongside baseball.
He collaborated with prominent brands, including Coca-Cola, Ford, Pizza Hut, and more.
Thus, these high-value partnerships undoubtedly intensified his financial standing, contributing to his overall wealth.
Similarly, Fernando also served as the coaching staff for Team Mexico during multiple World Baseball Classic tournaments.
This experience not only earned him widespread recognition but also provided him with an additional source of income.
The Los Angeles Dodgers mourn the passing of legendary pitcher Fernando Valenzuela. pic.twitter.com/MXeBlDzDWJ
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 23, 2024
Furthermore, Valenzuela possessed an extravagant Spanish-style mansion valued at $5.2 million in Los Angeles, California.
Besides, the Dodgers legend also dedicated himself to charitable works throughout his career.
He founded a non-profit organization, the Fernando Valenzuela Foundation, which provides educational benefits and scholarships to youths.
In addition, Valenzuela also provided youth baseball clinics, where he trained aspiring baseball players and nurtured their skills.
Lastly, Fernando’s legacy will be forever remembered, and we offer our heartfelt condolences to the Valenzuela family during this time of sorrow.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- In 1981, Valenzuela married Linda Burgos, a schoolteacher from Mexico, and the couple had four children.
- The Hall of Fame Museum contains several pieces of Fernando Valenzuela memorabilia, including a signed ball from his June 29, 1990 no-hitter.
- His parents, Avelino and María, were poor farmers who worked the land with their children and were of Mayo Indigenous ancestry.