Ex-MLB Players Dotel, Blanco Die in Nightclub Collapse

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – The baseball world is reeling from the devastating loss of former Major League Baseball players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco, who were among the victims of a catastrophic roof collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo early Tuesday morning. The incident, which occurred during a merengue concert, has claimed numerous lives and left over 150 people injured, sending shockwaves through the Dominican Republic and beyond.

Octavio Dotel, 51, was a beloved figure in baseball, known for his 15-year career as a relief pitcher across 13 MLB teams—a record at the time of his retirement. A native of Santo Domingo, Dotel’s journey began with the New York Mets in 1999, and he went on to play a pivotal role in the St. Louis Cardinals’ 2011 World Series victory. His versatility and durability earned him 109 career saves and a reputation as a steady presence in high-pressure moments. Off the field, Dotel was remembered for his warmth and dedication to his community, leaving a lasting impact on Dominican baseball.

We are heartbroken to learn the tragic news that former Astros pitcher Octavio Dotel was one of several individuals that passed away when a roof collapsed in his native Dominican Republic last night.

Dotel, 51, spent five seasons (2000-04) of his outstanding, 15-year Major… pic.twitter.com/wQui3h7rko

— Houston Astros (@astros) April 8, 2025

Tony Blanco, 43, also left an indelible mark on the sport. A first baseman and outfielder, Blanco played for the Washington Nationals in 2005 and enjoyed a successful career in international leagues, including Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball. Known for his power at the plate, Blanco’s legacy extends to his son, Tony Blanco Jr., a promising prospect in the Pittsburgh Pirates’ organization. Blanco’s contributions to Dominican baseball, both as a player and a mentor, were widely celebrated.

The tragedy unfolded at the Jet Set nightclub, a popular venue in the heart of Santo Domingo, where a vibrant crowd had gathered for a performance. Around 1 a.m., the roof collapsed, trapping many inside. Emergency responders worked tirelessly to rescue survivors, but the scale of the disaster was overwhelming. Among the other victims was Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Monte Cristi province and sister of former MLB star Nelson Cruz, further deepening the sorrow felt across the nation.

The cause of the collapse remains under investigation, with authorities citing possible structural issues exacerbated by the large crowd. The Dominican Republic has declared a period of mourning, and makeshift morgues and blood donation centers have been set up to address the crisis. President Luis Abinader expressed his condolences, stating, “Our hearts are with the families affected by this unimaginable tragedy.”

Major League Baseball issued a statement mourning the loss: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Octavio Dotel, Tony Blanco, and all those lost in Santo Domingo. Their contributions to our game and their communities will never be forgotten.” Teams across the league, including the Mets, Cardinals, and Nationals, held moments of silence to honor the victims.

Tributes have poured in from players, fans, and organizations. Former teammate Omar Vizquel called Dotel “a great person and player,” while the Dominican Professional Baseball League described Blanco as “a legend whose spirit will live on.” The outpouring of grief reflects the profound impact both men had on and off the field.

As the Dominican Republic grapples with this tragedy, the baseball community stands united in remembrance of Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco—two athletes whose lives were cut short but whose legacies will endure through their contributions to the sport and the lives they touched.

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