Former Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher David West is desperately searching for his missing family members following the devastating floods that recently swept through parts of Texas. The disaster, fueled by days of torrential rainfall, has caused significant damage and displacement, with dozens of people still unaccounted for. West’s family was last seen in the area of central Texas that was hardest hit by flash flooding. According to West, his sister, her two children, and their grandmother had been traveling back from a family reunion when their vehicle was reportedly caught in rapidly rising waters near the Blanco River.
The former pitcher made a heartfelt plea on social media, sharing photos and details about his missing relatives. “Please help us find them. We’re praying they are safe somewhere, maybe waiting for help,” he wrote. His emotional message quickly gained traction, as fans, fellow athletes, and concerned citizens amplified his call for assistance.
Local authorities confirmed that search and rescue operations were underway, with helicopters, boats, and K-9 units being deployed to comb through debris-filled waters and ravaged neighborhoods. The fast-moving nature of the floods, combined with the destruction of roads and communication lines, has made efforts extremely challenging. According to emergency services, dozens of vehicles were swept off the roads, and several residential areas had to be evacuated within minutes.
West, who played in the MLB during the 1990s, said he has never felt so helpless. “You’re used to being in control when you’re on the mound,” he told reporters. “But this—this is different. This is my family, and I can’t just stand by and do nothing.”
The Texas floods have already claimed several lives and left thousands homeless. As the search for survivors continues, the story of David West’s missing family has struck a chord with many across the nation, especially as he represents a figure from America’s pastime now caught in a deeply personal tragedy.
Neighbors and volunteers in the affected area have joined the efforts to locate West’s relatives. Several churches and community centers have opened their doors to displaced families, offering food, shelter, and aid. Social media pages dedicated to the flood response are filled with posts about the missing, including the names and photos of West’s family members. Candlelight vigils have been organized in multiple towns, where residents gather to show support and offer prayers for all those affected.
The pitcher has stayed close to the emergency operations base, waiting anxiously for any update. He shared that the last contact with his sister came via a text message that read, “The water’s rising fast. We’re trying to get out.” Since then, there has been no response. The family’s SUV was later spotted submerged in a wooded area, though authorities have not confirmed whether it belonged to West’s relatives.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of emergency in the affected counties, pledging every available resource to search-and-rescue missions. He also emphasized the importance of staying alert and not underestimating the power of flash floods, which can become fatal in a matter of minutes. “Our priority is saving lives,” he said during a press conference.
West’s former teammates have expressed their support, some traveling to the area to be by his side. “We’re here for him, not just because he’s a teammate, but because he’s family,” said one of his former coaches. The MLB community has also rallied around him, sharing his message and donating to local rescue organizations.
As the sun rises and sets over a landscape now marked by mud, debris, and shattered lives, West continues to hope for a miracle. “I just want to hold them again,” he said quietly during a televised interview, holding back tears. “That’s all I want. I want them home.”
The search is ongoing. Rescuers have said they will not stop until every lead has been exhausted. Meanwhile, support continues to pour in from across the country—donations, supplies, and prayers all directed toward the families affected by one of the worst natural disasters Texas has seen in recent years.
Though the waters may eventually recede, the emotional toll will linger for much longer. For David West and so many others, this is no longer just a weather event—it is a deeply personal crisis, a test of hope, strength, and community. As he puts it, “Baseball teaches you a lot about patience and resilience. I’m holding onto that now more than ever.”
As each day passes, the search grows more urgent. But with every helicopter overhead, every volunteer combing through the wreckage, every message shared online—there remains a sliver of hope. And for one former pitcher, that hope is the only thing keeping him going.
