Los Angeles mourns the loss of Margarita Mota, a beloved figure in the baseball community and the wife of legendary Los Angeles Dodgers player, Manny Mota. At the age of 81, Margarita, the matriarch of a baseball family, passed away due to natural causes in her home in La Crescenta. Her son, Jose Mota, a former major leaguer and current Spanish language broadcaster for the Dodgers, confirmed the news. Margarita’s legacy extends beyond her role as a supportive wife and mother; she was an active philanthropist and touched the lives of many through her charitable work.
Married for 60 years, Margarita and Manny Mota exemplified the true meaning of partnership. Manny, an icon in the baseball world, is the third-highest career pinch-hitter in Major League Baseball history and a two-time World Series champion with the Dodgers. He played for the team from 1969 to 1982 and served as a coach from 1980 to 2013. Throughout their lives, the couple remained committed to giving back and established the Manny Mota International Foundation. This nonprofit organization has made a significant impact on the Dominican Republic, building a medical clinic, baseball fields, and a school.
Margarita’s compassion and love for the less fortunate were an inspiration to all who knew her. She dedicated herself to helping those in need and instilled these values in her children. Jose Mota fondly remembers his mother’s unwavering support and her efforts to bridge the gap between the American players and their Dominican counterparts. Margarita’s home-cooked meals for Dodgers players participating in the Dominican Winter League were a testament to her generosity and her desire to create a sense of family among the players. She was truly a woman of the people.
A Strong Legacy
Margarita Mota leaves behind a lasting legacy. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her eight children: Cecilia, María, Rafael, Andy, Domingo, Gary, and Tony. Her spirit lives on through her 20 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. The Mota family has made significant contributions to the world of baseball, with Andy following in his father’s footsteps and playing in the major leagues. Domingo, Gary, and Tony also pursued careers in baseball, playing in the minor leagues or coaching for the Dodgers.
A Tribute to Margarita
The Los Angeles Dodgers honored Margarita’s memory with a touching tribute. A framed photo of Margarita and Manny, with Margarita’s arms lovingly wrapped around her husband, accompanied by a bouquet of white roses, was displayed in the stadium’s press box. Before the team’s game against the San Francisco Giants, there was a somber moment of silence to pay respect to the remarkable woman who had touched the lives of Dodgers players and fans alike.
In the midst of deep sadness, let us remember Margarita Mota for the incredible woman she was. Her love for her family, her unwavering support for her husband, and her dedication to helping others serve as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have on the world. Margarita’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, both on and off the baseball field.
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