Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Alex Vesia announced Friday the death of his infant daughter, sterling, on October 26th.The news comes after Vesia was absent from the team during the World series due too a “deeply personal family matter,” as described by the Dodgers at the time.
Vesia and his wife, Kayla, shared the news in an Instagram post featuring a photo of an infant holding hands with adults. “Our little angel we love you forever & you’re with us always,” they wrote. “Our beautiful daughter went to heaven Sunday October 26th. There are no words to describe the pain we’re going through but we hold her in our hearts and cherish every second we had with her.”
Vesia, 27, was a key member of the Dodgers’ bullpen this season, posting a 4-2 record with a 3.02 ERA across 68 regular-season games. He appeared in seven postseason games, going 2-0 with a 3.86 ERA. The team initially announced his absence on October 23rd, the day before Game 1 of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays.
As a gesture of support,Dodgers relievers wore Vesia’s no. 51 on their caps throughout the series. The Blue Jays joined the tribute, with their relievers also wearing the number during Game 6.
In their Instagram post, the Vesias expressed gratitude to the medical staff at Cedars Sinai medical Center, as well as both the Dodgers and Blue Jays organizations for their understanding and support. “Our baseball family showed up for us and we wouldn’t be able to do this without them,” they wrote. “Thank you Dodger Nation,Blue Jays organization and all baseball fans for your love and support. We have seen ALL your messages, comments and posts. It’s brought us so much comfort.”
The Dodgers ultimately defeated the Blue Jays in seven games to win their second consecutive World Series championship. The MLB Players Association also released a statement,offering its condolences to the Vesia family. “The MLBPA sends its love and support to Alex and Kayla Vesia at this difficult time,” the statement read. “Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the entire Dodgers community.”
