Octavio Dotel, a former MLB pitcher known for his longevity and impact as a reliever, has died at the age of 51 after being injured in the tragic collapse of the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Dotel was among the 160 people injured in the incident, which claimed at least 44 lives, including Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Montecristi and sister of MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz.
Dotel’s death marks the loss of one of baseball’s most reliable journeyman relievers, whose 15-year career spanned 13 teams — a Major League record. Debuting with the New York Mets in 1999, Dotel quickly became a strikeout artist with a blazing fastball and dominant presence on the mound.
In 2004, Dotel recorded a career-high 36 saves while splitting time between the Houston Astros and the Oakland Athletics. Known for his versatility in the bullpen, he became a key midseason acquisition for the St. Louis Cardinals in 2011, helping the team capture the World Series title that year. He delivered crucial innings in the postseason, stabilizing the Cardinals’ bullpen during their memorable run.
Throughout his career, Dotel compiled a 3.78 ERA and 109 saves, striking out over 1,100 batters in just under 950 innings. His ability to adapt and deliver in high-leverage situations made him a trusted arm on any roster.
The collapse occurred around 1 a.m. during a merengue concert that drew numerous public figures, athletes, and politicians. Emergency crews continue to search through the rubble for potential survivors.
“We presume that many of them are still alive, and that is why the authorities here will not give up until not a single person remains under the rubble,” said Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Center of Emergency Operations.
Dotel’s legacy lives on through his on-field accomplishments and as a symbol of Dominican excellence in Major League Baseball. His contributions to the game, especially his role in helping bring a championship to St. Louis, are remembered by fans and peers alike.