The premiere of Netflix’s documentary “The Clubhouse,” chronicling the 2024 Boston Red Sox, served as a poignant reminder that Major League Baseball athletes face challenges just like anyone else. Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran emerged as the most talked-about player of the season, having bravely disclosed his suicide attempt in 2022 for the first time.

Yet, the documentary unveiled numerous other hidden narratives throughout the season, one of which focused on starting pitcher Brayan Bello. Bello was the Red Sox’s Opening Day pitcher in 2024, experiencing a season marked by highs and lows. During an extended slump in late spring, speculation swirled about what might be impacting his mindset, but it was later revealed that he was grappling with something far more significant than most realized.

Bello’s wife and young children, Bryanna and Brayan Jr., faced visa issues in the Dominican Republic, preventing their travel to the U.S. last season. The docuseries, particularly Episode 5, titled “Boston, You’re My Home,” vividly illustrated the emotional toll on Bello due to his family’s absence. On Monday, for the first time since “The Clubhouse” aired, Bello opened up about coping with their absence last season. “It was incredibly challenging,” Bello expressed through a translator, according to MassLive’s Chris Cotillo.

“When you arrive in a new place and your family isn’t there, it’s tough. Especially last year, I experienced many ups and downs during the season. Being without them for eight, nine months was really hard.” A notable moment in Episode 5 showed Red Sox manager Alex Cora consoling Bello, highlighting the significant impact of his family’s absence. Bello also acknowledged Cora’s crucial support throughout a difficult year. “The support from everyone was wonderful, but Alex’s support stood out,” Bello remarked, as reported by Cotillo.

“I believe it’s because he’s Latino. He understands the situation, possibly knowing someone who has faced a similar challenge or maybe he has himself. His support meant a lot to me.” Fast forward to 2025, and Bello’s family has joined him in the U.S., with visa issues resolved. The right-hander boasts a 2.01 ERA over his first four starts and aims to maintain his momentum on Tuesday against the American League-leading Detroit Tigers.