Tragedy has a way of crashing the party uninvited—this time, quite literally. What began as a night of music and celebration turned into a scene of chaos, grief, and unbearable loss. The MLB world has been left stunned, with fans and former teammates grappling with the sudden blow. As tributes pour in and questions swirl, one thing is certain—this wasn’t how a champion’s story was meant to end.

As the community mourns the tragic loss of Nelsy Cruz, sister of former MLB star Nelson Cruz, another devastating blow strikes MLB fans. Mike Rodriguez reported on X that former MLB player Octavio Dotel has passed away.

Rodriguez posted “Tragic event: After the authorities saved him alive from the rubble of the nightclub, former MLB player and World Series champion Octavio Dotel has been declared dead at the hospital. A great human being and a lovely person, much strength to his family. We, your friends, will miss you very much.”

On April 8, 2025, a devastating incident occurred at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. During a performance by renowned merengue singer Rubby Perez, the club’s roof collapsed around 1 a.m., leading to significant casualties. Reports indicate that at least 44 people lost their lives, and over 160 others sustained injuries.

Among the victims was 51-year-old Octavio Dotel, a former MLB pitcher and World Series champion. Rescuers discovered him trapped beneath the debris and promptly transported him to a nearby hospital. Despite medical efforts, Dotel succumbed to his injuries, marking a profound loss for both the baseball community and those who knew him personally.

Dotel’s legacy extends beyond the baseball diamond; he was a devoted husband to his wife, Massiel, and a loving father to their children, Eduardo and Nicole. As the baseball community and fans worldwide mourn this profound loss, we remember not just the athlete, but the remarkable human being whose impact will be felt for generations to come.

NY Mets star, Sterling Marte reacts to the tragic news of Octavio Dotel

​The recent tragedy at Santo Domingo’s Jet Set nightclub has deeply affected the baseball community, particularly those with ties to the Dominican Republic. Among the mourners is New York Mets outfielder Starling Marte, who shared his profound grief over the loss of former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel.​

This news of Octavio Dotel passing away came as a shock to everyone including Starling Marte. Marte during an interview was very emotional speaking about Dotel. He said, “He was a friend, a brother, a father. We talked all the time about all kinds of things. He taught me so much. I feel so much for his family and wish them strength.”

Marte also noted that the Jet Set nightclub served as a gathering spot for many prominent figures in the Dominican baseball scene. He mentioned that he, too, frequented the club when in the Dominican Republic, making it especially hard for him to process the tragedy.

Octavio Dotel had a distinguished 15-year MLB career, playing for 13 different teams—a record at the time. He was part of the St. Louis Cardinals’ 2011 World Series-winning team. Beyond his on-field achievements, Dotel was revered as a mentor and friend within the baseball community.​

New York Mets star Jose Siri also expressed his deep sorrow upon hearing the news. He admitted being at a loss for words to convey the magnitude of this tragedy for everyone affected. As a fellow Dominican, Jose Siri likely shared a close bond with Dotel and had the opportunity to learn from his experiences.

Baseball, as it always does, will carry on. But inside locker rooms, in quiet corners of dugouts, and deep in the hearts of those he touched, Octavio Dotel’s absence will be felt in ways stats could never measure. Some innings last forever—and this is one the baseball world will carry with them for a long, long time.