Alex Vesia Misses World Series Due to Family Emergency

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia has temporarily stepped away from the team to deal with what officials described as a “deeply personal family matter.” The team made the announcement on Thursday, just one day before the start of the World Series. Vesia will miss at least the first two games of the championship series as he attends to his family situation.

The Dodgers organization released a statement expressing solidarity with the left-handed pitcher and his family. “The entire Dodgers organization is sending our thoughts to the Vesia family,” the statement read. The team also added that an update will be shared when appropriate. Although the details of the situation remain private, reports from USA Today suggest that Vesia and his wife, Kayla, are expecting their first child.

Vesia, 29, has been a crucial part of the Dodgers’ bullpen throughout the postseason. His performance included a 3.86 ERA over seven appearances, making him one of the reliable arms for manager Dave Roberts. The left-hander’s absence could affect the team’s pitching strategy in the early games of the Fall Classic.

Manager Dave Roberts shared that the team is currently exploring ways to adjust the roster in Vesia’s absence. “We’re in the mode of trying to understand the process, the rules, and the way we can navigate the roster,” Roberts said during a press briefing. He added that they have until Friday morning to finalize the World Series roster. Roberts emphasized that the team is taking things “day by day” with “no expectations,” as Vesia’s return depends on how the situation develops.

With the World Series roster deadline approaching, the Dodgers could decide to place Vesia on the family medical emergency list. Under league rules, this move would require Vesia to miss a minimum of three days and a maximum of seven days. This means there is a possibility that Vesia could return to the team by Game 3, which will take place in Los Angeles.

If the Dodgers proceed with the roster change, they might bring in Tanner Scott, another left-handed reliever, to temporarily fill Vesia’s spot. Scott, who signed a four-year, $72 million contract, has not yet pitched in this postseason. However, his recent health recovery has increased the likelihood of his participation. Scott faced challenges during the regular season, finishing with a 4.74 ERA and losing his closer role to Roki Sasaki. Despite that, he has resumed throwing bullpen sessions and told reporters that he feels “a lot better now.”

During the 2024 regular season, Vesia posted an impressive 3.02 ERA with five saves across 68 appearances. His steady control and ability to deliver under pressure have made him one of the most trusted relief pitchers for the Dodgers. His experience and consistency will be missed, especially in a high-stakes series like the World Series.

For both Vesia and the Dodgers, this is an emotional and uncertain time. While the team focuses on winning the championship, they are also prioritizing Vesia’s personal well-being. Manager Dave Roberts and his players have expressed their full support for Vesia, recognizing the importance of family matters over professional commitments.

The team remains optimistic that Vesia might rejoin them before the end of the series, depending on how the family situation evolves. His potential return for Game 3 or later would give the Dodgers a welcome boost, as his pitching could play a crucial role in the outcome of the series.

Alex Vesia’s temporary absence from the Dodgers during the World Series highlights the balance professional athletes often face between personal responsibilities and career goals. The Dodgers are standing firmly behind their player as he manages an important family moment. Fans and teammates alike are hoping for good news from the Vesia family and for his possible return to the mound before the series concludes.