Brother of Marlins pitcher stabbed to death

The Marlins pitching staff suffered another tragedy.

A younger brother of Marlins pitcher Edinson Volquez was stabbed to death in the Dominican Republic earlier this week, according to a report in Quisqueyanos El Los Deportes.

Brandy Volquez, a 25-year-old father of five, was killed during a brawl with two men outside a barber shop in the El Cafe de Herrera district of Santo Domingo Oeste at around 3 a.m. Tuesday. One suspect is in custody, the other is hospitalized.

“[Brandy] had a family, and it’s shameful what happened last night,” Volquez told CDN. “I hope justice is served.”

It is the second time in a year and a half that the Volquez family is dealing with death. Volquez found out his father had died of heart disease just after pitching for the Kansas City Royals in Game 1 of the 2015 World Series. He flew to the Dominican Republic for the funeral and returned to pitch in Game 5.

Volquez signed a two-year deal with the Marlins in November to fill the rotation spot left vacant after star pitcher Jose Fernandez was killed in a boating accident in late September. Volquez’ contract was reported to be for $22 million.

When he signed with the Marlins, Volquez said: “I live in Miami, and I really like this team. I’m really excited to pitch in this ballpark. I’ve been playing for a long time with a lot of different teams. This was my favorite team as a kid. This was my first choice.”

Marlins president of baseball operations Michael Hill said of the addition of Volquez: “It was an obvious need for us. With Edinson, you have an experienced All-Star who’s been a world champion. I think he’ll fit in nicely on our staff.”

This story was originally published January 18, 2017 at 9:21 AM with the headline "Brother of Marlins pitcher stabbed to death."