Morning Briefing: Octavio Dotel Passes Away
Good morning, Mets fans.
Former Mets pitcher Octavio Dotel tragically passed away at 51 in the collapse of the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo on Tuesday. Dotel, who made his MLB debut with the Mets in 1999, had a successful 15-year career with 13 teams. He was part of the 2011 World Series-winning Cardinals.
The collapse occurred early Tuesday during a Merengue concert at the nightclub that was packed with people. In addition to Dotel, former MLB player Tony Blanco was also among those killed. Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Monte Cristi and sister of MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz, lost her life as well. At least 79 people died, and more than 160 others were injured.
The Mets extended their condolences to the people affected by the tragedy in the Dominican Republic.
“We mourn the passing of Octavio Dotel. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the tragedy in the Dominican Republic,” the team said.
Dotel’s time with the Mets was brief, but he came up with the team and will be remembered fondly. His passing, along with the others lost in this tragic event, is deeply felt, and he will be remembered for his contributions to the game.
Lou Capozzola-USA TODAY NETWORK
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On This Date in Mets History
1985: Gary Carter walks off the Cardinals in his first game as a Met.
2007: The Mets erupt for seven runs in the ninth, defeating the Philadelphia Phillies 11-5.
2012: Daniel Murphy hits a single to walk off the Washington Nationals to break a 4-4 tie. The Mets improve to 4-0 on the season.
Born on This Date: Jerry Hinsley (1945), Graeme Lloyd (1965), David Robertson (1985), Eric Campbell (1987).
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