Today marks the 25th anniversary of the day that started Fernandomania: Dodger pitcher Fernando Valenzuela was a last-minute replacement for scheduled starter Jerry Reuss. Fernando, making his first Major League start, proceeded to pitch a five-hit shutout on his way to winning not only the National League Rookie of the Year but also the Cy Young Award. Fernando was an awesome pitcher for several years, and he was among my favorite players to watch when I was really young. Right now, he's helping out with the Dodgers' Spanish radio broadcasts.
On this date in 2001, Willie Stargell died from kidney problems at age 61. He could hit the ball really hard and far and has a very well-deserved spot in Cooperstown.
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