Dodgers Veteran Miguel Rojas Honors Late Parents with Custom Cleats

The tribute has resonated across the league, highlighting a heartfelt connection between family, loss, and the game.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 6:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of a pair of baseball cleats, the vibrant colors and expressive brushstrokes conveying the raw emotion and energy of a player honoring his late parents through his equipment.A heartfelt tribute to his late parents, Dodgers veteran Miguel Rojas' custom cleats capture the emotional depth and personal stories that define the game of baseball.Los Angeles Today

Los Angeles Dodgers veteran Miguel Rojas has transformed his equipment into a symbol of remembrance, debuting custom cleats that honor his late parents shortly after returning to the team following his father's sudden passing. The vibrant cleats feature the Venezuelan flag, along with personal messages and a photo of his father wearing a Dodgers jersey.

Why it matters

Rojas' tribute has drawn widespread attention across Major League Baseball, highlighting the emotional depth and personal stories that continue to define the game. The Dodgers have rallied around Rojas during this difficult time, reinforcing the strength and unity within the clubhouse.

The details

Rojas lost his father, Miguel 'Micky' Rojas Sr., on April 7 following a sudden heart attack in Venezuela. Despite the loss, he remained with the team and continued playing, turning his grief into a meaningful on-field tribute. The cleats feature vibrant colors inspired by the Venezuelan flag, along with 'MAMA' on one heel and 'PAPA' and 'MICKY' on the other. A photo of his father wearing a Dodgers jersey is also included, adding another layer of personal significance.

  • Rojas debuted the cleats on Saturday, April 12, 2026 vs. the Texas Rangers.
  • Rojas' father, Miguel 'Micky' Rojas Sr., passed away on April 7, 2026.

The players

Miguel Rojas

A veteran player for the Los Angeles Dodgers who recently lost his father and has honored him with custom cleats featuring personal tributes.

Miguel 'Micky' Rojas Sr.

Rojas' late father, who passed away suddenly on April 7, 2026 due to a heart attack in Venezuela.

Los Angeles Dodgers

The Major League Baseball team that Rojas plays for, who have rallied around him during this difficult time.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Miguel Rojas honors his late parents through custom cleats”

— MLB

What’s next

The Dodgers will continue to support Rojas as he processes his loss and contributes to the team's success this season.

The takeaway

Rojas' tribute to his late parents through his custom cleats serves as a powerful reminder of the emotional depth and personal stories that are woven into the fabric of baseball. His resilience and the Dodgers' support for him during this difficult time exemplify the strong sense of community and family that exists within the sport.