Dodgers Fan Finds Renewed Joy in Baseball After Health Scare
TORONTO – A Southern California family’s World Series experience took a poignant turn as Contreras, a lifelong Dodgers fan, watched his team fall to the Toronto Blue Jays 11-2 on October 24, 2025, just a year after a near-fatal health crisis during the previous postseason.The game, a decisive loss putting the Dodgers behind in the series, was nonetheless marked by a sense of gratitude for Contreras, who is able to witness the team’s journey despite ongoing health challenges.
Contreras’s experience underscores the powerful connection fans often feel to their teams, a bond that can be particularly meaningful during times of personal struggle. He nearly died during the 2024 World series, adn this year’s postseason represents a renewed possibility to experience the joy of baseball. The game itself was a arduous one for the Dodgers, with starting pitcher Blake Snell exiting with the bases loaded and no outs in the sixth inning, leading to a nine-run outburst by the Blue Jays, including a two-run home run from Alejandro Kirk, a Tijuana native.
The family dynamic added layers to the viewing experience. Contreras’s daughter, an Angels supporter, wore a Kiké Hernández T-shirt ”because he stands with immigrants.” His wife,Mary,who typically finds baseball boring,offered a pointed commentary on the Dodgers’ success,stating,”The only good thing about the Dodgers is that they aren’t winning with a gringo,” and adding,”Its someone [Ohtani] who doesn’t want to speak English who’s winning it for them.”
throughout the game, contreras’s health was a concern, with his sugar levels rising and requiring attention from Mary, who adjusted his insulin device. He acknowledged his condition, remarking to no one, “They do know when someone’s ill, right?” as his sister’s corgi, Penny, offered comfort on his lap.
Despite the lopsided score and his physical discomfort, Contreras maintained a philosophical outlook. “It’s unbelievable that I’m able to see this,” he said, adding, “But I’m still place. my feet hurt, my memory isn’t what it used to be, my sense of balance isn’t there. But there’s the Dodgers. But they need to win.” His son, Conrad, later retrieved his father’s walker and jokingly offered a Toronto shirt, to which Contreras responded, “No, that would give me another heart attack.”
