Juan Soto Sends Message After Devastating News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | Last updated Apr 9, 2025 12:37 AM ET

The MLB world received devastating news out of the Dominican Republic on Tuesday. A tragic roof collapse claimed the lives of at least 79 people (via ESPN ), including two former big leaguers. Among the confirmed deaths are 15-year MLB veteran Octavio Dotel and former Washington Nationals outfielder Tony Blanco.

Via ESPN News Services: "Former major league players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco were among more than 70 people who died after the roof of an iconic nightclub collapsed in the Dominican Republic early Tuesday, the Dominican National Police confirmed."

MLB posted messages for both players on social media, mourning their tragic passing.

Messages from around the baseball world have been pouring in, including from New York Mets outfielder Juan Soto.

"To our aid agencies, rescuers and volunteers I extend my thanks for standing toe to toe with our people," the Dominican star wrote on Instagram (translated from Spanish to English). "God bless you always and keep you safe."

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Juan José Soto Pacheco (@juansoto_25)

Soto's Instagram post included a photo of him wearing the Dominican Republic jersey during the World Baseball Classic. Having produced countless MLB players, the Dominican Republic has a rich baseball history. Tuesday's news was devastating, and the reactions from around baseball have reflected that.

The Mets were one of the 13 teams Dotel pitched for in his MLB career. The right-hander began his career in New York, debuting on June 26, 1999. He pitched 19 games for the Mets (14 starts) before being traded to the Houston Astros after his rookie season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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