During the World Series, the Toronto Blue Jays showed a powerful gesture of support for Dodgers reliever Alex Vesia. He’s currently absent from the team due to a “deeply personal family matter.” In response, Dodgers pitchers have been wearing his No. 51 on their caps, with the Blue Jays following suit during Game 6.
This solidarity highlights the bond among athletes, even amidst fierce competition. Blue Jays pitchers, like Chris Bassitt and Seranthony Dominguez, marked their caps with Vesia’s number in a touching tribute as the Dodgers battled to stay in the series.
Vesia, 29, has been a reliable player, posting impressive stats including a 3.02 ERA during the regular season. Manager Dave Roberts praised the Blue Jays for their display of unity, saying it reflects the respect athletes have for one another. “It’s a huge tribute to Alex,” he remarked, emphasizing that this bond transcends sports.
Enrique Hernandez, an outfielder for the Dodgers, noticed Bassitt’s cap number while walking back to the dugout after a strikeout. Instead of feeling frustrated, he found comfort in the gesture. “It’s incredible,” he said. “They’re trying to win a World Series, but they understand life is bigger than baseball.”
Blue Jays manager John Schneider added that this support reveals the strong character of his players. “We have a lot of good people who appreciate each other and understand the challenges we face,” he mentioned.
Support like this isn’t just a moment; it’s a reminder of the human side of sports. According to a recent survey by the Sports Leadership Institute, over 75% of athletes believe that camaraderie extends beyond competition. This reflects a growing trend in sports where athletes show support for each other in times of need, emphasizing the deep connections formed through shared experiences.
This heartfelt tribute not only honors Vesia but also showcases the spirit of sportsmanship in the MLB, reinforcing the idea that, at the end of the day, compassion matters just as much as competition.
