From Monterrey to Mexico City: Fond memories for the Padres in Mexico

Caminiti homers twice in Snickers game

It is hard to believe this memorable feat took place 30 years ago. For those unfamiliar, let’s set the scene. The Padres were meeting the New York Mets in the final game of the 1996 Monterrey Series. Friars third baseman Ken Caminiti walked into the clubhouse with a bad case of food poisoning and dehydration. The training staff administered IV fluids to treat him. Padres manager Bruce Bochy was resigned to the fact that his star cleanup hitter would be unavailable for the contest. Somehow, some way, Caminiti played in the rubber game of the series. His afternoon began with a solo home run to put the Friars on the scoreboard. Caminiti proceeded to hit a massive three-run shot that extended the lead to 8-0 and secure a series victory over the Mets. What is remarkable about his legendary performance is that Snickers candy bars were the lone food source Caminiti could keep down. This memorable Sunday afternoon propelled him to win the NL Most Valuable Player Award.

Valenzuela’s historic first MLB start on home soil

You need no explanation on what an honor it was for Fernando Valenzuela to start the first major league regular-season game in Mexico. Despite playing away from his hometown, Valenzuela remained a celebrated national hero. Viewers could see how the honor was a personal accomplishment for him. A raucous crowd of over 23,000 fans chanted “El Toro” at Valenzuela every time he touched the baseball. The left-hander threw six innings and allowed three runs on six hits to secure the win in a 15-10 victory. The offensive attack featured a grand slam by Greg Vaughn and a solo shot by Steve Finley. It was another memorable moment in Valenzuela’s distinguished 17-year major league career.