Former Seattle Mariners reliever Yoervis Medina, who played for the club from 2013 to 2015, has died at the age of 37 following a reported heart attack while driving in his native Venezuela. According to the New York Post, the incident occurred in the municipality of Naguanagua, where Medina crashed into several parked cars after suffering the cardiac event. The details of the crash have not been fully disclosed, but multiple news outlets confirmed the tragedy and the cause of death, citing local media sources.
Medina, who made his Major League Baseball debut in 2013, was known for his role as a reliable relief pitcher for the Mariners. During his rookie season, he posted a 2.91 ERA with 71 strikeouts in 68 innings. Over his three-year MLB career, he maintained a career 3.08 ERA with 147 strikeouts across 146 innings in relief appearances. His performance earned him a trade to the Chicago Cubs in 2015, though he only played in a few games for the team before being released.
The Mariners commemorated Medina’s passing on social media, expressing their condolences to his family and friends. The team also shared a tribute post, acknowledging his contributions as a former player and noting his presence in the Minor League Baseball system with the Everett AquaSox. The AquaSox, which are part of the Mariners’ farm system, also shared a heartfelt statement on X, stating, “Sad news coming out of Venezuela, former AquaSox pitcher Yoervis Medina (2010) has passed away at the age of 37. He pitched in the Major Leagues between 2013 and 2015. RIP.”
While the exact circumstances of the accident remain under investigation, the tragedy has sparked an outpouring of grief from both the baseball community and his loved ones. Colleagues and fans are remembering Medina’s contributions to the sport and his personal journey. The incident underscores the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of health awareness, especially for athletes who often face intense physical demands.
Medina’s passing has also raised discussions about the challenges faced by professional athletes in countries with limited healthcare access, particularly in regions with socioeconomic disparities. While the focus remains on mourning his life, the incident highlights the broader implications of public health and safety, especially in areas with limited emergency response capabilities.