MLB player Mike Aviles’ 5-year-old daughter is cancer-free, player says

Adriana Aviles throws out the first pitch at an Indians home game to her father. (Photo: AARON JOSEFCZYK/AP)

The Detroit Tigers’ infielder Mike Aviles reported to spring training in Lakeland, Florida, bearing good news: His 5-year-old daughter Adriana, who was diagnosed with leukemia last May, is now cancer-free.

Aviles, 34, told reporters, "Everything's going well with her. She had a bone marrow transplant in December, she's recovering. She'll be out here in a couple weeks when she's allowed to fly. And she's cancer-free and going forward."

The New York City native is starting his first season with the Tigers. He signed a one-year contract with them this offseason after three years with the Cleveland Indians. He and his wife, Jessy Poulsen, have twin daughters.

In August Adriana – bald at the time because of her treatment – and her sister Maiya got to throw out the first pitch at an Indians home game.

Several Cleveland players, coaches and front office employees, including owner Paul Dolan, shaved their heads in support of Aviles' family last season. The team also decided not to trade him midseason so he could spend as much time as possible near his family.

"It was a tough a situation, but it worked out good because I didn't get traded," Aviles said, according to ESPN.com. "I was able to stay there and be around for my family."

Aviles is entering his ninth season in the major leagues. He has a career .265 batting average with 58 home runs. While he has played most of his games at shortstop, he has become a versatile utility man who played all outfield positions as well as three infield spots last season while hitting .231 with 5 home runs in 290 at bats.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.