Dodgers’ Alex Vesia speaks candidly on family tragedy and healing journey

Alex Vesia has spoken publicly for the first time about the tragic death of his and wife Kayla’s newborn daughter, Sterling Sol Vesia, who passed away in late October amid the 2025 World Series.

In a heartfelt six-minute statement delivered Friday, Feb. 13, at Comeback Ranch in Glendale, Arizona, where the Dodgers began spring training, Vesia shared his grief and offered insight into how he and his wife have been coping.

“The lessons we've learned from this is that life can change in an instant. For us, 10 minutes is all it took,” Vesia said. 

He described Sterling as “the most beautiful girl in the world” and recalled the brief, precious moments they had together. “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.”

Vesia also highlighted the importance of seeking support during times of loss. “For those out there who've lost a child or are fighting through any struggle, if you can take anything from this, please seek help. Talk to somebody. It's definitely helped Kay and I. Please don't be afraid to speak up.”

The pitcher and his wife had announced Sterling’s death on Nov. 7, nearly a week after she passed on Oct. 26. Vesia missed the Dodgers’ World Series trip to Toronto due to the “deeply personal family matter,” and did not return before the Dodgers’ Game 7 victory on Nov. 1.

Vesia shared an emotional moment of connection with the baseball community during the series. Dodgers and Blue Jays relievers wore hats honoring Vesia’s No. 51, a gesture he said “showed that it's much bigger than baseball.” 

He recounted receiving a supportive message from Blue Jays pitcher Louis Varland’s brother: “The Varlands love you, dude. The whole Toronto bullpen has it, too. We love you all.”

Vesia and Kayla, who married in January 2024, announced their first pregnancy in April 2025. In January, Kayla expressed gratitude on TikTok for the support from fans and the baseball community, saying it brought them “a lot of comfort during this.”

“Kay and I, we were very emotional,” Vesia said Friday. “We were super overwhelmed with emotion and the baseball community, the relationships that you make along the way… It showed that it's much bigger than baseball.”