Former Cubs, Mariners Pitcher Yoervis Medina Dies at 37 After Heart Attack, Fatal Car Collision.vc
The baseball world is mourning the 37-year-old reliever, who died Thursday. Former teammate David Ross remembered Medina as a “fierce competitor” and “beloved teammate.”
The baseball world was rocked by the sudden passing of Yoervis Medina, the former right-handed pitcher for the Chicago Cubs and Seattle Mariners. Medina, just 37 years old, tragically died on Thursday after suffering a heart attack while driving, which led to a fatal car collision.
The news has left fans and the baseball community stunned and heartbroken.
Medina’s death was confirmed by the Cardenales de Lara, a Venezuelan Winter League team where he pitched from 2010-2018. Tributes have poured in from former teams and players mourning the untimely death of a beloved figure in the game.
“Yoervis Medina was a fierce competitor on the mound, a beloved teammate, and a friend to many,” said David Ross, his former Chicago Cubs teammate. “His sudden passing leaves a void in our hearts, and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
A Formidable MLB Career
Over his three-year MLB career, Medina made a significant impact with the Seattle Mariners (2013-2015) and the Chicago Cubs (2015). Known for his powerful sinker, he posted a career 3.08 ERA and a 121 ERA+ in 146 games.
At 6-foot-3 and 245 pounds, Medina had a formidable presence on the mound and earned a reputation as a hard-throwing reliever who could dominate hitters. His fastball averaged an impressive 95.8 mph during his prime.
Medina’s journey to the big leagues was a testament to his determination. Signed as an amateur free agent by the Mariners in 2005 from Venezuela, he spent seven years in the minor leagues before making his big-league debut in 2013. He became a trusted bullpen piece for Seattle before his brief stint with the Cubs in 2015.
A 17-Season Global Career
After his time in the majors, Medina’s passion for the game continued. He refused to give up on his career, playing professionally for 17 total seasons in leagues abroad, including in Venezuela, Italy, the Czech Republic, and Nicaragua.
His resilience and positive attitude left a lasting impression everywhere he played.
Following Medina’s passing, his former teams took to social media to express their grief. Águilas del Zulia, a Venezuelan team Medina played for during the 2018-2020 seasons, posted a heartfelt message:
“The Águilas del Zulia organization mourns the passing of Mr. Yoervis Medina… We join in prayer for the eternal rest of his soul and express our deepest condolences to his family and friends, asking God to grant them comfort and strength during this difficult time.”
Medina’s passing serves as a painful reminder of the fragility of life. His legacy as a player and a person will continue to inspire those who had the honor of playing alongside him.
