Dodgers' bullpen left-hander Vesia temporarily leaves team due to family reasons; World Series participation uncertain

On the eve of the World Series, the Los Angeles Dodgers' key bullpen left-hander Alex Vesia has temporarily stepped away due to "highly personal family matters," and his availability for the World Series remains undecided.

The Dodgers released a statement: "We are deeply saddened to share that Alex Vesia is currently away from the team, dealing with very private family matters with his wife Kyla. The entire Dodgers organization sends their care and best wishes to the Vesia family, and we will provide further updates at the appropriate time."

The first game of the World Series will begin at 8 a.m. Beijing time on Saturday at Rogers Centre in Toronto. Vesia did not travel with the team to Toronto as he and his wife are awaiting the birth of their first child.

Manager Dave Roberts admitted the team is evaluating options to replace Vesia and it is still unclear if he will return during the series. He said, "Honestly, we're taking it day by day with no particular expectations right now."

The World Series roster must be submitted by 10 a.m. local time on Friday, and the Dodgers may remove Vesia from the roster if it becomes clear he cannot return in time.

Another possible approach is to place him on the "family medical emergency list," allowing him to be temporarily away for 3 to 7 days before reassessing his return.

Roberts said, "We are currently reviewing the relevant procedures and rules to find a flexible solution. We still have some time, roughly until 10 a.m. tomorrow, to finalize the roster. But yes, we are in the process of arranging a replacement."

Vesia is one of the most reliable relievers in the Dodgers bullpen, having appeared in 68 games this season with a 3.02 ERA. He also pitched in 7 of 10 postseason games, proving to be a key fireman for the team. The Dodgers had planned some bullpen adjustments for the World Series, but filling Vesia’s spot will be challenging since he is one of the few pitchers who can perform under high-pressure situations.

Another left-hander, Tanner Scott, is a potential replacement candidate. He missed the National League Championship Series due to treatment for a lower-body abscess after the Division Series. Additionally, right-hander Will Klein, who features a strong fastball, traveled with the team and could be a possible option against Toronto’s powerful right-handed hitters.