In a tragic twist of fate, Octavio Dotel passed away at the age of 51 following a roof collapse at Santo Domingo’s Jet Set nightclub in the Dominican Republic. The retired Major League Baseball pitcher, who previously set a record for playing with 13 different MLB teams, was at a merengue concert when disaster hit. The deadly accident killed at least 79 and injured 160 others.
Early Rescue and Later Confirmation
The early reports indicated Dotel had been rescued from the rubble and taken to hospital. However, subsequent confirmation from Satosky Terrero, the spokesperson of the Dominican Professional Baseball League, confirmed that Octavio Dotel passed on shortly after having suffered the injuries.
Other Key Victims
Among other victims were Tony Blanco, a fellow professional baseball player who had one season of MLB and eight years of playing in Japan, and Nelsy Cruz, Monte Cristi province governor and sister of Nelson Cruz, who is a former MLB legend and now the baseball operations adviser. The tragedy has caused a wave of shock throughout the world of baseball.
MLB and Players React to the Tragedy
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred released a statement on behalf of the league: “Major League Baseball is saddened by the deaths of Octavio Dotel, Tony Blanco, Nelsy Cruz, and all of the victims of last night’s tragic event in Santo Domingo.” MLB Players Association executive Tony Clark added, “We mourn with all the victims and extend a special message of condolence to the families of Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco.
A Storied Career in Baseball
Dotel started his career after signing with the New York Mets in 1993. In 1999, he made his debut in MLB and changed from a starter to a very dependable reliever. In 15 seasons, he played in 758 games, recording 1,143 strikeouts in 951 innings of work with a career ERA of 3.78.
Historic Record and World Series Championship
His finest years were with the Houston Astros, when he was a top setup man to closer Billy Wagner. Dotel became the first player to pitch for 13 different major league clubs in 2012, a feat later bettered by Edwin Jackson. Perhaps the highlight of his career was in 2011, when he signed with the St. Louis Cardinals in the middle of the season and contributed to their World Series title.
Pride of the Dominican Republic
A patriotic Dominican, Dotel also played a part in his country’s undefeated streak at the 2013 World Baseball Classic. His career in the game is distinguished by toughness. He is very well known for his versatility, and brilliance on the mound.
Farewell to a Baseball Icon
The New York Mets observed a moment of silence prior to Tuesday’s game against the Miami Marlins. This was in memory of the deceased star. And his memory was honored with a Dominican flag.
Legacy That Lives On
As investigations into what led to the catastrophic collapse continue, one thing is certain: Octavio Dotel died not only a baseball legend, but a popular Dominican hero. His legacy will endure through the sport and the numerous lives he touched.
