Sad news in the baseball world... Former MLB pitcher Odalis Perez died on Thursday night after falling from a ladder at his home.
He was only 44 years old.
Perez's lawyer, Wallin Batista, confirmed the news to ESPN ... explaining to Perez's family that the former Los Angeles Dodgers fell down a ladder in the Dominican Republic.
"Around 7 p.m., his brother, Christian Perez, arrived at the house and found Odalis lying in the courtyard," Batista told the outlet. "We do not yet know the cause of his death, but everything indicates that Odalis fell down a ladder. It is a tragedy."
The Dodgers and the Nationals - two of Perez's former teams - both mourned Perez's passing on social media Thursday night ... Both organizations sent their condolences to the family and friends of the former left-handed pitcher.
Odalis Pérez was our starting pitcher at our 1st game in Nats Park history.
— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) March 11, 2022
Our hearts go out to his family and friends. May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/r9Y8eJGwv5
Hall of Famer Vladimir Guerrero also expressed grief over the news in an emotional tweet.
"I keep fond memories of the moments we were able to share," Vlad said. "May God take you to a better place."
Perez made his Big League debut in 1998 with the Atlanta Braves... and he played 10 more years on The Show for the Dodgers, Royals and Nationals.
He ended his career with a 73–82 record, 4.46 ERAs and 920 strikes in 1,335 innings.