Why Alex Vesias World Series Absence Was Heartbreaking for Dodgers Before Game 7 Win

The Los Angeles Dodgers won the 2025 World Series on November 1. Their victory came against the Toronto Blue Jays. The final game was a tense, hard-fought contest. Yet a moment of profound sportsmanship defined the series.

This gesture involved Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia. He missed the championship due to a personal family matter. Players from the opposing Blue Jays team honored him by writing his jersey number, 51, on their hats. According to Newsweek, the act resonated deeply throughout the baseball world.

A Brotherhood Beyond the Baseball Diamond

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed his gratitude. He learned of the tribute after the October 31 game. Roberts called it a testament to the brotherhood among athletes. He said the respect shown was a huge tribute to Vesia.

The situation involving Vesia and his wife, Kayla, was described as heartbreaking. The couple is expecting their first child. The Blue Jays’ acknowledgment of this personal struggle highlighted a shared humanity. It showed that some things are bigger than the game itself.

Incredible Act of Goodwill Echoes Through Clubhouses

Dodgers player Kiké Hernández also praised the move. He called the gesture incredible. He noted that the Blue Jays were in the middle of trying to win a World Series. Yet they understood life is bigger than baseball.

The Dodgers themselves had been honoring Vesia throughout the series. Teammate Clayton Kershaw explained the significance. He said Vesia was a huge part of their team and bullpen. They wanted to do something to honor their absent teammate, creating a unified display of support from both clubhouses.

The 2025 World Series will be remembered for its thrilling conclusion. But the enduring image for many will be the simple number 51, a symbol of compassion that transcended team rivalries and showcased the true heart of the sport.

Thought you’d like to know-

Why did the Blue Jays honor Alex Vesia?

They honored him due to his absence for a deeply personal family matter. It was a gesture of solidarity and respect from one professional athlete to another during a difficult time.

How did the Dodgers react to the tribute?

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and player Kiké Hernández both praised the act. They described it as a huge tribute and an incredible show of support that they deeply appreciated.

Did the Dodgers also honor Vesia during the series?

Yes, his own teammates also inscribed his number 51 on their hats. Clayton Kershaw stated it was to honor Vesia as a crucial part of their bullpen and team.

What was the result of the 2025 World Series?

The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Toronto Blue Jays in game seven. The final game took place on November 1, 2025, clinching the championship for Los Angeles.

Why was Alex Vesia not playing?

Vesia was absent from the World Series to deal with a private family matter. Reports confirmed he and his wife are expecting their first child, which was part of the context for the support.