Alex Vesia Returns to the Mound Early, With Heavy Heart and High Hopes
Spring Training doesn’t officially start until February 13, but at Camelback Ranch in Arizona, the work has already begun. Among the first wave of Dodgers pitchers to arrive early is left-hander Alex Vesia-back on the field, glove in hand, after enduring an unimaginable personal tragedy just a few months ago.
Vesia, known for his fire on the mound and his infectious energy in the clubhouse, was away from the team during the 2025 postseason following the heartbreaking loss of his daughter, Sterling. The Dodgers, along with the Toronto Blue Jays, honored Vesia by wearing his jersey number on their caps during the World Series-a quiet but powerful show of solidarity that spoke volumes about the kind of teammate and person he is.
Now, with the 2026 season on the horizon, Vesia is back. And he’s not easing into anything.
He was spotted getting in early bullpen work alongside fellow Dodgers pitchers Anthony Banda, Emmet Sheehan, Gavin Stone, and none other than Shohei Ohtani. That’s a group that’s not just showing up early-they’re setting the tone. For Vesia, it’s a sign that he’s ready to re-engage with the game that’s been both his profession and his passion.
The Dodgers are counting on him to play a key role in the bullpen again this year. While Edwin Díaz is expected to handle closing duties, Vesia remains one of the most dependable middle relievers on the roster.
Don’t be surprised if he pushes Tanner Scott for that high-leverage setup role as camp unfolds. Vesia’s got the stuff-and the drive-to take on more responsibility.
But this comeback is about more than just innings and matchups. It’s about resilience, community, and the healing power of returning to something familiar when everything else has changed.
In October, Vesia and his wife, Kayla, shared the devastating news that their daughter, Sterling, had passed away. The baseball world responded with an outpouring of love and support, from heartfelt messages on social media to gestures of solidarity on the field.
In a statement, the Vesias expressed their gratitude to the Dodgers, the Blue Jays, and fans across the sport: “Our baseball family showed up for us and we wouldn’t be able to do this without them. Thank you to the Dodgers for their understanding and support during this time.
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.”
Now, as Vesia steps back onto the mound, he does so with the weight of loss-but also with the support of a team, a fanbase, and a sport that’s rallied around him. His early arrival at Camelback Ranch isn’t just about getting a jump on the season. It’s a testament to his strength, his love for the game, and his determination to keep moving forward.
The Dodgers bullpen is better with Alex Vesia in it. But more than that, baseball is better with people like him in it.