Though he grew up about two hours from Dodger Stadium, Alejando Kirk never visited Chavez Ravine as a child. He was born 17 years after Fernando Valenzuela captivated both sides of the Mexico-United States border in 1981, yet he knew all about the iconic lefthander and his legacy.
Kirk was eager to finally meet Valenzuela at the 2022 All-Star Game. He took the best seat in the house as the sellout crowd at Dodger Stadium roared at the sight of Valenzuela, who threw out the ceremonial first pitch to Kirk.
Four decades after Valenezuela became the first Mexican Cy
