Kiké Hernández Praises Blue Jays’ Classy World Series Tribute to Alex Vesia
In a heartfelt display of sportsmanship, the Toronto Blue Jays paid tribute to Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia during the World Series. Vesia, who is currently absent from his team due to a deeply personal family situation, was honored by both the Dodgers and the Blue Jays. The Blue Jays bullpen wore Vesia’s jersey number, 51, on their caps during Game 6 as a sign of solidarity.
Kiké Hernández’s Response to the Tribute
Dodgers outfielder Kiké Hernández expressed his appreciation for the gesture. He noticed the number 51 on Blue Jays pitcher Chris Bassitt’s cap during the game and initially wondered about the connection. After the match, he recognized that the entire Blue Jays bullpen had adorned their caps with Vesia’s number.
Impact of the Tribute
The homage did not go unnoticed, and Hernández conveyed his gratitude. “For those guys to do that, it’s incredible,” he said. “They’re trying to win a World Series, but they understand that life is bigger than baseball.” Hernández emphasized the importance of the gesture, acknowledging the stakes of the game while recognizing the greater significance behind it.
Alex Vesia’s Season Stats
Vesia remains an integral part of the Dodgers. In the 2025 season, he appeared in 68 games, posting impressive statistics:
- 3.02 ERA
- 0.99 WHIP
- 80 strikeouts over 59 2/3 innings
The Dodgers released a statement confirming Vesia’s absence, noting that he and his wife, Kayla, are navigating a challenging personal matter.
As the World Series progresses, the tribute to Alex Vesia by the Blue Jays serves as a reminder of the unity and respect within the baseball community. Regardless of the game’s outcome, the players’ support underscores that some values transcend the sport itself.
