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Most people don’t want to be reminded of one of their worst moments in life.
But for Alex Vesia, that moment is also close to his heart.
Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Alex Vesia celebrates after the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Friday, March 27, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) APVesia and his wife, Kayla, tragically lost their newborn daughter last October, which caused him to miss the Dodgers World Series run last season.
So when Opening Day came this year, the Vesia family knew emotions would be heightened after picturing life differently.
Kayla attended Los Angeles’ season opener against the Diamondbacks, and in an Instagram post, she called her evening at the ballpark “very bitter sweet.”
“What I would give to have my Sterling girl here,” Kayla wrote, “carrying her in my heart always.”
Alex and Kayla announced on Nov. 7 that Sterling Vesia, their newborn, died on Oct. 26. They wrote at the time there were “no words to describe the pain we’re going through.”
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia pitches against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the seventh inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn ImagesNow every time Alex takes the mound, he’ll be reminded of Kayla and Sterling.
Alex made his season debut Saturday night in Los Angeles’ 5-4 victory over the Diamondbacks, throwing one inning of scoreless ball while surrendering one hit.
While his stat line was impressive, it was what he was wearing that caught everyone’s attention.
Alex was seen sporting a custom glove with Sterling Sol stitched onto it.
Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia is wearing a custom glove with the name of his late newborn daughter Sterling Sol Vesia on it, along with her birthday and the letter K on the ring finger for his wife Kayla
His newborn daughter passed away two days after the start of the World Series… pic.twitter.com/SxlrQMUMKq
Alex first spoke about his and Kayla’s loss during spring training when he read a prepared statement to the media.
“The lessons we’ve learned from this is that life can change in an instant,” Alex said. “Ten minutes is all it took. Sterling Sol was the most beautiful girl in the world. We got to hold her, change her diaper, read to her and love her. Our time together was far too short. Kay and I will keep those precious moments and memories to ourselves. I hope that anyone listening can empathize and respect our wishes for privacy as we continue to heal, and as we navigate the ups and downs of a baseball season.”
The Dodgers return to action Sunday when they wrap up their three-game series with the Diamondbacks. First pitch is set for 6:10 p.m.
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