Dodgers call up Eliezer Alfonzo Jr. amid family tragedy in Venezuela
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 4, 2026, 9:35 PM
Last updated Jul 4, 2026
The Los Angeles Dodgers have called up minor-league catcher Eliezer Alfonzo Jr. as a backup, filling in for injured All-Star Will Smith. Alfonzo's call-up comes during a difficult time, as his 16-year-old sister and stepmother remain missing following recent earthquakes in Venezuela. The earthquakes have claimed nearly 3,000 lives, and Alfonzo's father is aiding rescue efforts. This marks a significant moment for Alfonzo Jr., who is making his MLB debut at age 26 after ten seasons in the minors, previously signing with the Tigers in 2016. He has performed well in Triple-A this season, hitting.313 with a.392 on-base percentage.
- •Eliezer Alfonzo Jr. is called up by the Dodgers on July 4, 2026.
- •His family is affected by catastrophic earthquakes in Venezuela.
- •Alfonzo's sister and stepmother are still missing following the disaster.
- •He has a.313 batting average in 49 games this season at Triple-A.
- •Alfonzo Jr. previously signed with the Dodgers after a decade in the minors.
- 9:35 PMYahoo Sports — Dodgers call up C Eliezer Alfonzo Jr., whose sister and stepmother remain missing after Venezuelan earthquakes
"Nearly 3,000 people have been reported dead in the aftermath of the Venezuelan earthquakes.
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