Dodgers’ Alex Vesia and his wife mourn death of baby daughter

Remembering Sterling: The Heartbreaking Loss of Dodgers Pitcher Alex Vesia’s Daughter

In a heartfelt announcement made on Instagram, Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia and his wife, Kayla, shared the devastating news of their daughter Sterling’s passing on October 26. The couple expressed their profound sorrow with the words, “Our little angel, we love you forever & you’re with us always.” This tragic loss struck at a time when the family was looking forward to welcoming their first child, during an exhilarating postseason run for the Dodgers. Unfortunately, the joy they anticipated turned into unimaginable heartache, which led to Vesia missing crucial moments in the World Series.

Sterling’s death occurred during the Dodgers’ off week between the National League Championship Series and the World Series, a time that should have been celebratory. The couple’s poignant announcement highlighted the struggle of expressing the depths of their pain. “There are no words to describe the pain we’re going through,” they shared, emphasizing their commitment to cherishing every moment they shared with their daughter. The heartbreaking timing left Vesia with no choice but to step away from the team during an important moment in his career.

In a public statement released the day before Game 1 of the World Series, the Dodgers conveyed that Vesia would not be with the team due to a “deeply personal family matter.” The organization made the compassionate decision to exclude him from the World Series roster and the family medical emergency list, allowing Vesia the space to grieve without the pressure of returning to the field. Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman articulated the team’s stance perfectly, saying, “This is so much bigger than baseball,” underlining their commitment to supporting Vesia in a time of profound loss.

The baseball community came together in solidarity for Vesia during the World Series. The Dodgers’ bullpen paid tribute to him by emblazoning his jersey number, 51, on the sides of their caps for Game 3 and through the remainder of the series. This heartfelt gesture exemplified the unity and support shared within the team and the wider baseball fraternity. Additionally, it showcased the power of community and the ability of sports to bring people together during tough times, even beyond the boundaries of competition.

The Toronto Blue Jays also showed their support by having their relievers wear Vesia’s number during Games 6 and 7. These examples of compassion resonated with many, and Vesia and Kayla expressed their gratitude towards both the Dodgers and Blue Jays organizations. “Thank you to the Dodgers for their understanding and support during this time,” the couple wrote, emphasizing how their "baseball family showed up for us." Such moments highlight how sports can serve as a source of solace during difficult times, offering more than just entertainment.

Finally, the Vesias acknowledged the overwhelming outreach they received from the baseball community and fans alike. “Thank you Dodger Nation, Blue Jays organization, and all baseball fans for your love and support,” they expressed. The multitude of messages, comments, and posts from fans provided significant comfort during this challenging period. In a world where athletic achievements often overshadow personal stories, the unity displayed by the baseball community has been a poignant reminder of the empathy that exists within sports and life itself.

Conclusion

The sorrowful journey of Alex Vesia and his wife Kayla after losing their baby girl, Sterling, serves as a reminder of the deeper human experiences that lie beneath the surface of competitive sports. The heartfelt messages from both fans and fellow athletes emphasize that there are moments in life far greater than any game. The unity displayed by the Dodgers and the broader baseball community speaks volumes about the spirit of empathy and support that exists in the world of sports.