Tragic Loss for Dodgers’ Alex Bashear as He Returns to Team

The Los Angeles Dodgers were set for an exciting 2026 season, especially with Alex Bashear anticipating the birth of his first child. Yet, an unimaginable tragedy struck.

Before the World Series, Bashear had to step away from the team due to “extremely personal issues” and missed the championship series. Just days after the Dodgers celebrated their victory, he and his wife revealed heartbreaking news: their newborn daughter had passed away.

When he returned to Chavez Ravine last Thursday, his wife described the moment as “very bittersweet.”

“What I would give to have Sterling’s daughter with us,” Kayla said, reflecting on their loss. In his first press conference this year, Bashear praised his wife as “the strongest person I know,” recognizing her unwavering support.

“Life can change in an instant. For us, just 10 minutes was enough,” Bashear had shared in February. He remembered Sterling, saying she was “the most beautiful girl in the world.” Their brief time together felt far too short, yet they hold onto those cherished moments.

It was tough for Bashear to leave his teammates, the brothers he plays with daily. However, he found solace in knowing his family needed him more during this challenging period. They kept up with every pitch of the World Series, finding a glimmer of hope amid their grief.

Sterling passed away between the second and third games, with the series tied. Notably, Toronto Blue Jays relief pitchers honored her memory by writing Bashear’s number 51 on their hats during the series.

While Bashear did not pitch in the Dodgers’ 8-2 season opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks, he’s looking forward to a chance on Friday in Los Angeles, where he carries with him the weight of his recent loss.

Throughout the past two seasons, Bashear has maintained an impressive 2.36 ERA.