Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES — Sad news hit the baseball world this week. Former Dodgers pitcher Octavio Dotel has passed away at the age of 51. The tragic incident occurred in his home country, the Dominican Republic, where a nightclub roof collapsed during a concert early Tuesday morning. According to reports, at least 44 people lost their lives, and more than 160 others were injured. Dotel was among the many who had gathered at the venue in Santo Domingo, a popular spot known as Jet Set, to enjoy a merengue performance.
Dotel had one of the most well-traveled careers in Major League Baseball history. Over 15 seasons, he suited up for 13 different teams, including a brief but memorable stint with the Dodgers in 2010. Fans might remember that he was picked up by L.A. at the trade deadline that year, with the Dodgers sending Andrew Lambo and James McDonald to the Pirates to complete the deal.
In his short time wearing Dodger blue, Dotel appeared in 19 games, posting a solid 3.38 ERA over just under 19 innings. His stay in Los Angeles didn’t last long — he was dealt to the Rockies before the season ended.
Dotel wrapped up his career with a 59–50 record, 109 saves, and a 3.78 ERA over 758 games. He made his big-league debut in 1999 with the Mets and later earned a World Series ring with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2011. His resume of 13 teams is still one of the highest in MLB history — second only to fellow former Dodger Edwin Jackson, who played for 14.
Dotel’s journey through the league made him a true baseball journeyman, and his presence in so many clubhouses speaks to the respect he earned from coaches and teammates alike. While his time in Los Angeles was brief, he will always be remembered as part of the Dodgers family.
Our thoughts are with Dotel’s family, friends, and fans during this incredibly difficult time.
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