Marlins honor José Fernández
The Miami Marlins paid respect to their fallen teammate Jose Fernandez before their game against the New York Mets Monday night. 24-year-old Fernandez was killed in a boating accident Sunday, leaving behind a legacy of strength, pride and charisma. The team paid tribute to their lost pitcher by wearing jerseys stamped with his number, 16, and last name, Fernandez, a sight that couldn’t be explained in words.
During the opening ceremony, fans listened to a rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ball Game”, performed by a single trumpeter, while pictures of Fernandez rotated on the big screen.
Dee Gordon began the game with a lead-off home run, an emotional moment for everyone in the stadium. “The two-time All-Star second baseman, after taking one pitch while batting from the right side, switched back to his natural spot as a lefty hitter and two pitches later belted his first home run of the season,” according to MLB.com.
The momentum of the evening continued through the entirety of the game, Marlins winning 7–3.
As fans left the stadium, players and coaches gathered at the pitcher’s mound, were they again commended their lost friend, leaving their black hats where Fernandez once stood.
The final salute was after the stadium had cleared out completely. The Marlins made one last tribute, a toast to the sky for Jose Fernandez.
Fernandez will remain in the minds and hearts of fans as premiere athlete who gave people a reason to watch baseball. A private funeral will be held Thursday September 29, 2016 for the beloved pitcher.
