Mexican baseball a source of pride south of the border
Baseball history is rife with situations where an underrated, undermanned team manages an upset victory, or where a less-heralded batter or pitcher comes up big against a superstar.
So, too, is world history.
In 1861, unable to pay its foreign debts, Mexican President Benito Juárez declared that all payments would be suspended temporarily. Though the Mexican government was able to reach agreements with the United Kingdom and Spain, it was not able to do so with France. French naval forces landed at Veracruz, and about 8,000 soldiers moved on toward Mexico City.
Near the town of Puebla, the French faced stiff resistance from a Mexican army with half the manpower and lacking the necessary equipment and training. On May 5, 1862, the Mexicans defeated the French, considered one of the most formidable armies in the world.
Cinco de Mayo has taken on a new meaning in the United States, where it serves as an opportunity to celebrate Mexican culture and contributions.
Beginnings in Mexico
To the topA rich history
To the topFernandomania
To the topBy the end of the year, the Dodgers had won a World Series championship, and Valenzuela added a Cy Young Award and a Rookie of the Year Award to his collection. Valenzuela had also tied a nearly 70-year-old record when he notched his eighth shutout as a rookie.
Dodgers Spanish-language broadcaster Jaime Jarrin, the 1998 recipient of the Ford C. Frick Award, explained the importance of Valenzuela and Fernandomania among Latinos.
Winning teams
To the topNotable Mexican-Born Major Leaguers
To the topCatcher: Álex Treviño
First Base: Erubiel Durazo
Second Base: Bobby Avila
Third Base: Vinny Castilla
Shortstop: Juan Castro
Left Field: Karim García
Center Field: Alfredo Amézaga
Right Field: Jorge Orta
Starting Pitchers: Fernando Valenzuela, Esteban Loaiza, Ismael Valdéz, Yovani Gallardo, Rodrigo López
Bullpen: Elmer Dessens, Oliver Pérez, Dennys Reyes, Aurelio López, Antonio Osuna, Sid Monge, Juan Acevedo, Joakim Soria