The tragic death of Miami Marlins' pitcher Jose Fernandez continues to shock American sport.
Fernandez died, aged 24 on Sunday in a boating accident. The Cuban was on board with two other men, when it capsized. All three died.
The Marlins returned to action on Monday night in a match against the New York Mets. On Monday afternoon, the team announced they were to retire Fernandez's number as a mark of respect, but not before the whole team wore his jersey in their 7-3 win in Florida.
Before the match, members of the Marlins team gathered around the pitching mound in memory of their former teammate.
What a moment.#JDF16 pic.twitter.com/iT7KLTEmaQ
— Miami Marlins (@Marlins) September 26, 2016
One of the most emotional parts of the night came when Dee Gordon score a home-run in the first inning. The 28-year-old was given a standing ovation, with tears in his eyes as he ran the bases. Gordon returned to the home dugout to emotional teammates.
Just amazing, @FlashGJr. #JDF16 pic.twitter.com/Tgg03ZSJlt
— MLB (@MLB) September 26, 2016
Fernandez's death will be remembered for a long time in the baseball world. Aged 24, the Cuban was a two-time All-Star despite only spending four seasons in the professional ranks.
The @Marlins held a special ceremony in honor of #JoseFernandez prior to Monday's game at Marlins Park. #JDF16 pic.twitter.com/1OPMrYyrEJ
— FOX Sports Florida (@FOXSportsFL) September 27, 2016
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