Last year, the LA Dodgers were about to play in an important World Series. A variable occurred. Alex Bethea (30, LA Dodgers) suddenly left the line.
At first, the exact reason was unknown, raising the curiosity of many fans. The Los Angeles Dodgers team said at the time, “Beshia was not included in the roster due to serious family issues. The club sends its deepest condolences to Bethia’s family.”
And soon after, the truly sad reason was revealed. Bethia wrote a post directly through her personal social network service (SNS). He wrote, “My couple’s beautiful daughter left for heaven on October 26th.”
The Dodgers entered the World Series without Bethea. The competition was very fierce. A bloody battle took place until the 7th game. The Dodgers’ bullpen pitchers entered the decisive game with Bethea’s uniform number ’51’ engraved on their caps. But something surprising happened. Some players from the opposing team, Toronto, also joined the procession. It was the moment when everyone confirmed that there was something more important than baseball.
And about three months later, Bethea stood in front of reporters for the first time. MLB.com, the official website of American professional baseball Major League Baseball (MLB), reported on the 14th, “Becia expressed gratitude to those who supported her after losing her child.”
Camelback Ranch, located in Glendale, Arizona, USA, the Dodgers’ spring training site. Bethea, who was interviewed by reporters at the scene, said, “(My daughter) Sterling Sol was the most beautiful daughter in the world. We got to hug her, change her diapers, read to her, and love her. But our time together was too short. My wife, Kayla, and I will cherish those precious moments and memories. Just as we have ups and downs during the baseball season, I hope that anyone who hears our story will empathize and respect our wish for healing.” The public remarks continued for about 6 minutes.
Bethea then did not forget the Toronto team of the opposing team who comforted him.
“While Kayla and I were watching the World Series, I noticed the number 51 on Louis Balland’s (Toronto) hat. I immediately texted his brother, Gus Balland, and asked if I was watching correctly. He texted me right back.”
The reply was as follows:
‘Baland loves you. All of Toronto’s relievers did that. There is something bigger than baseball. We all love you.’
“Kayla and I were very moved,” Bethea said. “We were just completely overwhelmed by the emotions and the world of baseball and the relationships that were formed along the way. It showed us that there is something much bigger than baseball.”
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also said, “What the Toronto players did was a spirit of partnership in baseball,” and added, “People are the top priority.”
Bethea and his wife are receiving psychological treatment to overcome their grief. He gave sincere advice, saying, “It wasn’t easy, but talking to someone made a big difference. Talking through the pain helped me understand the unimaginable feeling of loss. If you’ve lost a child or are going through any difficulties, I encourage you to ask for help. I encourage you to talk to someone. This has definitely been a huge help to my wife and I. Don’t hesitate to do it. Mental health is important.”
He said, “I learned that there were other families who had experienced what happened to us. After realizing that fact, my empathy and gratitude toward this society deepened. The baseball community is really powerful.” Bethea paused, took a deep breath, and concluded, “I wasn’t ready to not have my daughter home, but I take her with me every day. It’s been hard, but we’re doing well.”
date: 2026-02-14 17:18:00