Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Eliezer Alfonzo made his Major League debut on July 5, just hours after learning that his 16-year-old sister and stepmother had died in the earthquakes that hit Venezuela. Alfonzo got the call to the big leagues on July 4, when his family members were still considered missing. He received a standing ovation from Dodgers fans before his first at-bat, which he said he appreciated and will always keep in his heart. Alfonzo played the game with "EyP RIP" written on his cap in honor of his family members. His teammate Miguel Rojas, who has family in Venezuela, expressed support for Alfonzo, calling it "really tough" to play under such circumstances. Alfonzo is the son of former Major League player Eliezer Alfonzo Sr.
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