Last updated on: July 18, 2025
Elpidia Valdez was a doting mother to MLB sensation Ketel Marte. She brought him up with love, courage, and optimism. Her story is one of sacrifice, love, and an enduring legacy.
Quick Facts About Elpidia Valdez
| Full Name | Elpidia Valdez |
| Birthdate | N/A |
| Age | N/A |
| Occupation | N/A |
| Husband/Wife | Name Not Known |
| Died | 30 July 2017 |
| Parents | Not known |
| Grandchildren | Kayden Marte, Kadmiel Marte |
| Children | Ketel Marte (MLB player) |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
Early Life and Background
Elpidia Valdez was from Nizao, a small town in the Dominican Republic. She led a simple life and worked hard to bring up her son. She was a single mother and gave her everything to support Ketel. Even during difficult times, she remained grateful.
There is no public record of Ketel’s father. Elpidia was the chief support in his life.
A Mother’s Sacrifice
From a very young age, Ketel dreamed of playing baseball. Elpidia believed in Ketel. She did her best to see him become a reality. She saved money so that Ketel could go to baseball academies. She provided him with food, clothing, and everything else he required to train.
Ketel has stated that he would not be where he is today without his mother.
Her Tragic Death in 2017
In 2017, a horrific accident turned Ketel’s life around. Elpidia perished in a traffic accident in the Dominican Republic. Ketel was in Chicago with his squad at the time. He was devastated. Her passing deeply affected him.
Just before her death, Ketel had reached 10 home runs in a season. It was something she had challenged him to accomplish. He called her to congratulate her. She was just so proud of him. That was one of the final conversations they had.
A Tattoo and a Memory
As a tribute to his mother, Ketel has Elpidia’s tattoo on his left arm. According to him, it makes him feel connected to her. It reminds him of her love and encouragement. Whenever he takes to the field, he plays for her.
Ketel frequently mentions her in interviews. He speaks about how much she meant to him. He also sends his awards to her. In 2023, when he was NLCS MVP, he credited his mom.
The 2025 Incident in Chicago
In June of 2025, Ketel experienced another very sad incident. During a game in Chicago, a fan shouted an ugly remark about his deceased mother. The fan yelled out, “I texted your mom last night.”
Ketel was deeply hurt. He started crying on the field. His teammates consoled him. The incident was difficult to bear. The fan was suspended from all MLB arenas following the event.
Later, Ketel addressed how painful that remark was. He told that his mother had passed away in Chicago. That made the statement even more hurtful. But even then, he told that he would pray for the fan. He was gracious, even when he was suffering.
READ ALSO: Ketel Marte Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Ketel’s Family Today
Ketel is a father and husband now. He got married to Elisa Guerrero in 2018. They have two boys—Kayden Marte and Kadmiel Marte, born in 2021. He wishes to be an affectionate parent, just like Elpidia was to him.
Although she is no longer present, Elpidia’s love continues to influence his life. Ketel affirms that her strength supports him. He plays along with her memory in his mind.
