Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Alex Vesia appeared on the mound for the first time this spring during the 3-0 victory over the Seattle Mariners on February 23 at Camelback Ranch, marking not only his return to baseball but also an emotional milestone. This outing was particularly significant as Vesia had missed the 2025 World Series due to the passing of his daughter, Sterling Sol Vesia, on October 26, a tragedy he and his wife Kayla publicly shared in early November.
During his one-inning appearance, in which he recorded one strikeout, Vesia expressed gratitude for the support he has received from his teammates as he readies himself for the 2026 MLB season.
“Being around the guys, it’s really been comforting,”
Vesia said to reporters after the game (h/t SportsNet LA).
“We’ve had multiple conversations, and guys are asking me questions and just trying to feel for me, and that’s honestly been a blessing.
“I do like talking about it with the guys and whatnot. I don’t want them to feel like they can’t, because sharing those important moments and whatnot matters. These guys are my brothers, man. I truly love all of them.”
Vesia also acknowledged the heartfelt response from Dodgers fans, who gave him a standing ovation when he took the mound, a gesture that deeply affected him and his wife.
“It’s been hard, actually,” Vesia reflected.
“I guess it’s hard in a good way because I want to interact with all the fans and stuff like that, but I know that I have a job to do. Even on the backfield, it was the first day [and] we walk out the doors, and cheers and lots of love. So, it means a lot to not only myself but for K, too.”
Vesia Shares Insights on His Spring Training Performance
Turning to the baseball side of things, the Dodgers and Vesia are encouraged by his physical condition and performance during this early spring appearance. The reliever admitted he likely spent extra time preparing in the gym during the offseason but feels that effort has paid off.
“I’ll be completely honest; I probably spent way too much time in the gym,”
he said.
“Probably I needed it, but I feel really good. I think that my throw is in a really good spot, at least from all the coaching staff. They’re very encouraged with where I’m at. I think I was 92 [miles per hour] today, so I’ll take that.
“I’ve come into camp where I’m like 86, 88. So as long as the fastball has the ride and the efficiency, we’re going to be in a good spot, and we’ll keep building from there. But I am actually really happy. That first outing, we’re in a good spot.”
Optimism Abounds for Dodgers’ 2026 Season Fueled by Vesia’s Return
More broadly, Vesia expressed excitement about rejoining a Dodgers team that strengthened its roster after securing a second consecutive World Series championship with key acquisitions such as Edwin Diaz and Kyle Tucker. At 29, Vesia is expected to play a crucial role out of the bullpen following a solid 2025 season in which he posted a 4-2 record, a 3.02 ERA, 80 strikeouts, and five saves over 68 appearances, as noted by StatMuse.
“Man, we got a lineup, we got starting pitching, bullpen,”
Vesia said.
“I mean, it’s going to be a fun year. I’m really excited. I think we’re going to do some really cool things this year.”
His return not only bolsters the Dodgers’ pitching depth but also serves as an inspiring sign of resilience and determination for the entire team. As the season progresses, Vesia’s ability to perform at a high level while navigating personal hardship highlights his importance both on and off the field.
"Being around the guys, it's really been comforting."
Alex Vesia (1.0 IP, K) talks to @kirsten_watson and the media after his first Spring Training outing, as the Dodgers defeat the Mariners 3-0. #DodgersST⚾️🌵 pic.twitter.com/YuLdG3bhk2
— SportsNet LA (@SportsNetLA) February 23, 2026
