Dodgers Pitcher Alex Vesia Misses World Series Victory Parade Due to Family Matter
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Alex-Vesia-110325-78e201b8d91c4a66bd3c1f324bec69e9.jpg)
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher, Alex Vesia, was notably absent from the team’s celebratory parade following their World Series victory against the Toronto Blue Jays. Despite the team’s triumph, the 29-year-old player was not in attendance at the parade held in Los Angeles on Nov. 3. Vesia had also not participated in any of the World Series games, as it was revealed by the Dodgers in late October that he and his wife, Kayla, were confronted with a “deeply personal family matter”, leading to his leave of absence from the team.
The statement released by the Dodgers organisation on Oct. 23 expressed their support towards the Vesia family during this challenging time, promising further updates in the future. Alex Vesia, together with his wife Kayla, who had announced their anticipation of welcoming their first child back in April, had been sharing their journey towards parenthood on social media. However, both Alex and Kayla have been inactive on social platforms since Oct. 18, their last posts coinciding with expressions of excitement for the World Series.
Dodgers pitcher, Will Klein, shared sentiments of support and unity towards Alex and Kayla in an interview following game 7 on Nov. 1. Klein highlighted the team’s acknowledgment of Alex’s absence and expressed their dedication to winning the World Series in his honour. Despite the competitive nature of the game, Klein emphasised the importance of compassion and solidarity, citing the tribute paid by their opponents, the Toronto Blue Jays, who donned caps with Alex’s player number, “51”, in a show of respect.
Over the weekend, a fan page dedicated to the Dodgers shared images of the Blue Jays’ pitchers honouring Alex by wearing his number on their hats during the World Series. This gesture of support from the opposing team was praised by Dodgers’ player Kiké Hernandez, who expressed gratitude for the demonstration of sportsmanship and solidarity amidst the high-stakes championship games.
The absence of Alex Vesia at the Dodgers’ celebration serves as a reminder of the personal challenges that professional athletes face beyond the field. The outpouring of support and solidarity from both teammates and competitors reflects the tight-knit community within the realm of sports, transcending competition and emphasising human connection. As the Dodgers bask in the glory of their World Series victory, their thoughts remain with their absent teammate, Alex Vesia, and his family during this difficult time.