TORONTO: The Los Angeles Dodgers are heading into the World Series with one of their most reliable bullpen pieces suddenly unavailable.
On Thursday, the team announced that left-handed reliever Alex Vesia is “away from the team as he and his wife Kayla navigate a deeply personal family matter.”

While the statement didn’t disclose further details, it immediately cast uncertainty over Vesia’s availability for the championship series against the Toronto Blue Jays .

Manager Dave Roberts addressed reporters shortly after the team’s announcement, expressing empathy for his player but remaining cautious about a timeline.

“Honestly, we’re taking it day-by-day with no expectations,” Roberts said. “We’re going through the process of backfilling his spot, but right now, our priority is supporting Alex and his family.”

MLB’s Family Medical Emergency Rule

Under Major League Baseball’s family medical emergency list, players are allowed a minimum of three and a maximum of seven days away from the roster.
If the Dodgers use this designation, Vesia could potentially return as early as Game 3, when the series shifts to Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.

But for now, the team’s focus is to prepare without him — a significant challenge given his importance in their playoff run.

Vesia’s Impact This Season

The 29-year-old lefty has quietly been one of the Dodgers’ most consistent arms throughout 2025.
In 59⅔ innings, Vesia posted a 3.02 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, and struck out 80 batters, solidifying himself as Dave Roberts’ most trusted late-game option alongside Blake Treinen and Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki .

His absence leaves a glaring hole in the bullpen, especially with a potent Blue Jays lineup anchored by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and George Springer .

Who Could Replace Him?

Roberts hinted that the Dodgers are evaluating several replacement options, including veteran Tanner Scott, who has resumed bullpen sessions after missing the NLCS due to a lower-body abscess procedure.

Scott, who signed a four-year, $72 million deal last offseason, told reporters earlier this week he’s “feeling a lot better now.” Another left-handed reliever, Anthony Banda, has also stepped up lately, offering additional depth.

Still, Roberts acknowledged that pitching matchups could lean heavily on right-handers like Emmet Sheehan, Roki Sasaki, and Blake Treinen, particularly since the majority of Toronto’s core hitters are right-handed.

Dodgers’ World Series Rotation Takes Shape

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Vesia, Roberts confirmed that Clayton Kershaw will be included on the World Series roster.
The Dodgers’ rotation will likely feature:Blake Snell – Game 1

Yoshinobu Yamamoto – Game 2

Tyler Glasnow – Game 3

Shohei Ohtani – Game 4

Roberts called it “a championship-caliber rotation,” but admitted the bullpen depth remains a concern.

“Vesia has been a big part of our success,” Roberts said. “You don’t just replace that kind of consistency. But we trust our group — this team’s been through adversity before.”

The Human Side of Baseball

While the focus remains on the field, the Dodgers’ handling of the situation reflects the growing emphasis on player well-being and mental health across professional sports.

Teammates rallied behind Vesia, sending messages of support through social media.
Outfielder Mookie Betts posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“Family first, always. We’ve got your back, AV.”

The organization’s statement closed with a reminder that some moments go beyond the game:

“The entire Dodgers family supports Alex and Kayla during this time and asks that their privacy be respected.”

What’s Next

The Dodgers must finalize their World Series roster by 10 a.m. ET on Friday, ahead of Game 1 at Rogers Centre in Toronto.
Whether Vesia returns by Game 3 or remains sidelined, his absence underscores how unpredictable the postseason can be — even for a team chasing history.

For Roberts and the Dodgers, the message is clear: rally together, stay focused, and play for something bigger than baseball.

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