The Atlanta Braves community and baseball fans alike are mourning the loss of former pitcher Juan Jaime, who passed away at just 37 years old from a heart attack.
The news was shared by MLB insider Héctor Gómez, who referred to Jaime as “El Lápiz” in a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter). Jaime’s sudden passing has left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him and followed his career.
Born in Madre Vieja, San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic, Jaime made his mark on the game despite a brief MLB career. He played for the Braves during the 2014 and 2015 seasons, appearing in 18 games. Known for his electrifying fastball that regularly hit triple digits, Jaime was a player whose talent was undeniable, even if his time in the majors was limited.
In 2014, he pitched in 16 games, posting a 5.84 ERA. The following season, he appeared in two more games, allowing just one run across 1.1 innings. Throughout his MLB career, Jaime faced 70 batters, striking out 19 and walking 13. Though his career ERA stood at 5.93, his fielding independent pitching (FIP) of 4.38 hinted at potential beyond the numbers.
Jaime began his professional career with the Washington Nationals’ Dominican Summer League team in 2007. He then moved through the systems of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Atlanta Braves.
A six-player trade in 2015 sent him to the Dodgers, but his MLB career soon ended. He continued to pursue his passion overseas and in various leagues. His last professional stint in the Colombian Winter League during the 2023-24 season, where he posted a remarkable 1.59 ERA.
Juan Jaime will be remembered for his love of the game, his dedication to representing his Dominican heritage, and the impression he left on teammates and fans alike. As the Braves community reflects on his contributions, the legacy of “El Lápiz” remains strong in the hearts of all who knew him.
