TMZSports.com
Jerry Hairston Jr. is among the numerous figures in the baseball community grieving the loss of Fernando Valenzuela this week … expressing to TMZ Sports that his respect for the Dodgers icon was boundless.
Hairston Jr. was fortunate enough to collaborate with the late pitcher during the final years of Valenzuela’s life … both shared opportunities in broadcasting Dodgers games — and Hairston Jr. reflected on their time together fondly.
He shared that he has enjoyed a few rounds of golf with Valenzuela … and the duo exchanged many jokes both on the links and at Dodger Stadium.
“He was modest, warm-hearted, and humorous,” Hairston Jr. recounted. “The playful exchanges that I had with him, alongside our colleagues, highlighted his unmatched sense of humor.”
“Fernando will be greatly missed,” he continued. “63 years is far too young.”
The cause of death for Valenzuela — who achieved the title of Rookie of the Year and the Cy Young award with the Dodgers in 1981 — has yet to be disclosed … however, Hairston Jr. noted that he and others close to the former pitcher were aware that he had been facing health challenges in his final days.
“He has left an enduring legacy,” Hairston Jr. expressed, “and we will never forget Fernando.”
TMZSports.com
The Dodgers are set to strive for victory in the upcoming World Series for Fernando … and Hairston Jr. anticipated a thrilling clash with the Yankees — a face-off Valenzuela would have undoubtedly cherished.