"Fernandomania" thumb|left|upright|Valenzuela pitching for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1981 Following his successful stint as a reliever in 1980, Valenzuela transitioned to a full-time starter role in his 1981 rookie season. He was unexpectedly named the Dodgers' Opening Day starter as a rookie after Jerry Reuss was injured 24 hours before his scheduled start, and Burt Hooton was not ready to fill in. At first, Valenzuela did not think manager Tommy Lasorda was serious. However, he filled in and shut out the Houston Astros 2–0. He was the first rookie to start Opening Day for the Dodgers.
"Fernandomania" thumb|left|upright|Valenzuela pitching for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1981 Following his successful stint as a reliever in 1980, Valenzuela transitioned to a full-time starter role in his 1981 rookie season. He was unexpectedly named the Dodgers' Opening Day starter as a rookie after Jerry Reu,ss was injured 24 hours before his scheduled start, and Burt Hooton was not ready to fill in. At first Valenzuela did not think manager Tommy Lasorda was serious. However, he filled in and shut out the Houston Astros 2–0. He was the first rookie to start Opening Day for the Dodgers.