GRIFFITH PARK—Los Angeles Dodgers rookie catcher Eliezer Alfonzo who lost two family members following twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, made his debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers on Sunday, July 5.
The stronger of the two earthquakes measured with a magnitude of 7.5, following a 7.2 magnitude earthquake just 39 seconds earlier, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. As of July 5, Venezuelan officials reported nearly 3,000 people dead, more than 12,000 injured, and over 41,000 people still missing. The numbers continue to rise as rescue efforts continue.
Alfonzo’s stepmother, Patricia, and his 16-year-old sister, Eliana, were reported missing. They were found dead on Sunday, July 5, in the rubble of a collapsed hotel in La Guaira, Venezuela.
Alfonzo was called up from the minor leagues on Saturday, July 4, to serve as a backup catcher for the Dodgers. He learned of his family members’ deaths on Sunday, just hours before the game, and made his major league debut that same night.
Dodgers’ infielder Miguel Rojas, a friend of Alfonzo’s father and a fellow Venezuelan, wrote “Alfonzo” along with a cross and “Fuerza Matatán” on his cap to show his support. Alfonzo wrote “E y P, RIP” near the brim of his own cap in honor of his stepmother and sister.
Despite the Dodgers losing 5-2 to the San Diego Padres, Alfonzo made his debut just hours after receiving the news.
By Milan Manesh