Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia is stepping “away” from the MLB team ahead of their second consecutive World Series appearance to deal with a “deeply personal family matter” alongside his pregnant wife, Kayla.
News of the 29-year-old pro athlete’s break was shared by the Dodgers in an official statement that was posted on social media on Oct. 23, just one day before their first World Series game against the Toronto Blue Jays.
“It’s with a heavy heart that we share that Alex Vesia is away from the team as he and his wife Kayla navigate a deeply personal family matter,” the statement read. “The entire Dodgers organization is sending our thoughts to the Vesia family, and we will provide an update at a later date.”
Hours later, the Dodgers posted their official 26-man roster for the World Series, from which Vesia, who hails from Alpine, CA, was notably absent.
Neither he or his team have shared any other information about the matter that has taken him away from the sport; however, it appears to have been something sudden.
Vesia expressed nothing but excitement at the prospect of competing in the prestigious tournament in his most recent Instagram post, which was shared on Oct. 18.
Kayla shared her own celebratory post in light of the Dodgers advancement to the World Series on the same day, featuring several images of herself and her husband at the team’s most recent game.
“And now… onto the World Series,” she wrote alongside the photos, in which she proudly displayed her baby bump.
When Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was asked about Vesia’s exit in a press conference, he also hinted that the shakeup had happened somewhat suddenly, noting that the team was still grappling with how to fill his spot on the side.
“I think right now we’re in the mode of trying to understand the process, the rules—a way that we can sort of try to navigate the roster,” he said. “We’re going through the process of trying to backfill his spot on the roster.”
Vesia—who made his MLB debut in 2020—has made six consecutive scoreless appearances. He has a 3.86 ERA across 4.2 innings in October, according to ESPN.
The baseball pro, who is the relief pitcher for the Dodgers’ superstar Shohei Ohtani, initially began his professional career with the Miami Marlins, having previously played on a college level at Cal State East Bay.
“The road to this day was not easy, a skinny kid in high school, unathletic, didn’t throw hard, my only college offer was D2, and was drafted as a senior in the 17th round,” he wrote shortly before playing in his first MLB game.
“Would I change it… absolutely not. I’ve worked so hard for this moment and sacrificed a lot. Not going to birthday parties, family events and even telling my friends I can’t go out on Saturday nights. Decisions I told myself would pay off because my goal was to step foot on a MLB mound.
“I’m thankful for everyone who is in my corner, who has helped me along this journey! It has been an amazing ride for far… but we are just getting started!”
Just one year after signing with the Marlins, however, Vesia was traded to the Dodgers, a moment that he once again celebrated on social media, where he thanked the Miami side for helping to make his MLB dreams come true.
“I started playing baseball at the age of 5yo and all I’d ever wanted was to pitch in the MLB. Thank you to Marlins for making my dreams come true. I appreciate the player development staff for helping me develop my game. Miami, and it’s fans, will always have a special place in my heart,” he wrote.
“DODGER FANS! I can’t wait for what’s to come! I’m very excited to get to work with such a talented group of guys!”
Vesia’s return to California was undoubtedly an emotional one—particularly as the Golden State is where he first discovered his love of the sport.
The athlete was raised by parents Bob and Cindy in a charming Alpine abode that still boasts a Dodgers flag outside.
His sister also resides nearby their childhood home in a four-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom dwelling, which sprawls across 2,325 square feet.
The abode comes complete with a resort-style pool, a cozy fireplace, and a sprawling backyard adorned with lush greenery.
