Dodgers relief pitcher Alex Vesia stepped away from the team just before the World Series due to what was described as “a deeply personal family matter.” He and his wife, Kayla, revealed the tragic loss of their newborn daughter, Sterling Sol.
Vesia and Kayla were expecting their first child when the Dodgers announced his absence from the World Series roster. On Instagram, Vesia shared the painful news that their daughter “went to heaven Sunday, October 26th.”
“Our little angel we love you forever & you’re with us always,” the post read. “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.”
The Dodgers’ players honored Vesia by wearing his uniform number “51” on their caps throughout the World Series. Even pitchers from the opposing Toronto Blue Jays showed support by doing the same.
“Thank you to the Dodgers for their understanding and support during this time. Our baseball family showed up for us and we wouldn’t be able to do this without them.
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.”
Alex and Kayla Vesia’s Instagram post highlights a deeply personal loss embraced by an outpouring of support from the larger baseball community.
Author’s summary: Alex Vesia and his wife Kayla mourn their newborn daughter’s passing in October, receiving heartfelt condolences and solidarity from teammates, opponents, and fans alike.