Tragic Roof Collapse Claims Life of Former MLB Pitcher Octavio Dotel

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic -- Octavio Dotel, a former Major League Baseball pitcher known for his remarkable career with 13 different teams, has tragically died following a roof collapse at a nightclub in his home country. The incident occurred during a merengue concert, claiming the lives of at least 79 other attendees and injuring around 160 more. Dotel was 51 years old.

Initially, reports indicated that Dotel had survived the disaster and was transported to a hospital for treatment. However, it was later confirmed by Satosky Terrero, a spokesperson for the Professional Baseball League of the Dominican Republic, that Dotel succumbed to his injuries.

Among the other victims of the nightclub collapse was Tony Blanco, a former MLB player who had a brief career in the league, and Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Monte Cristi province, who was the sister of former MLB player Nelson Cruz.

Major League Baseball (MLB) expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Dotel and the other victims. Commissioner Rob Manfred issued a statement conveying condolences to the families affected, emphasizing the profound connection between baseball and the Dominican Republic.

Dotel began his professional journey when he signed with the New York Mets in 1993, making his MLB debut in 1999. Over a career spanning 15 years, he became a highly regarded relief pitcher. His career was highlighted by a World Series title won with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2011. Dotel's impressive record includes participation in 758 games, where he accumulated 1,143 strikeouts and maintained a 3.78 ERA.

In addition to his notable achievements in MLB, Dotel was part of the Dominican Republic's national team that won the World Baseball Classic in 2013. He was particularly recognized for his role as a setup man with the Houston Astros, where he showcased his skills alongside other prominent players.

Dotel made history in 2012 when he became the first player to pitch for 13 major league teams, a record later surpassed by Edwin Jackson in 2019. The Mets honored Dotel with a moment of silence before their game against Miami, displaying a Dominican flag on the scoreboard as a tribute.

In 2019, Dotel faced legal issues when he, along with former player Luis Castillo, was detained during a significant law enforcement operation targeting drug trafficking and money laundering. Both were released due to a lack of evidence linking them to the operation.

The recent tragedy has left a significant impact on the baseball community, particularly within the Dominican Republic, where Dotel's legacy as a player and a person will be remembered fondly.