MLB
Why they called Fernando Valenzuela ‘Toro’?
The Mexican who conquered the Major Leagues had a nickname that accompanied him throughout his career; the fans chose it.
Fernando Valenzuela became a legend for his “hot ball” in the Major Leagues. Every time he stepped onto the field, he ignited fans with his great performances. In the 80s, a vote was held to find a nickname for the young Mexican who graced the MLB.
The Los Angeles Herald Examiner conducted a survey to find a nickname for Valenzuela. Among several names, ‘Toro’ was the most voted for by baseball fans. This name reflected the personality of the man from Navojoa, Sonora.
“El Toro” symbolized strength, determination, and an indomitable spirit, qualities that Fernando displayed every time he played as a pitcher or a batter. That’s why fans voted for the Mexican player to have this nickname, which later stayed for the rest of his life.
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He has shown great talent since his arrival
In 1981, he arrived in the Major Leagues and quickly demonstrated his great talent, making a name for himself in baseball.
He won a Cy Young Award and captivated the city of Los Angeles with his ‘screwball’, striking fear into his opponents.
It is important to mention that, thanks to his prolific career on the diamond, he is also a member of several baseball halls of fame around the world. At some point in his career, apart from his MLB career with the Dodgers and Padres, he also joined the Tigres de Quintana Roo team of the Mexican Baseball League.