After cancelling Sunday's game against the Atlanta Braves, the Miami Marlins took the field tonight for the first time since the tragic death of José Fernández in a boating accident Sunday morning. In his all too brief four-year career, Fernández, 24, was an undeniable force on the mound, a jubilant presence in the Marlins clubhouse, and a beloved figure in the city of Miami.
Tonight, the organization, their fans, and his teammates are remembering Fernández in several locations: Outside Marlins Park.
On the mound where he displayed many masterful performances.
And on the chest and back of every single one of his teammates.
Prior to tonight's game, the Marlins' starting players stood around the mound with the rest of the team lined up along the third base line.
Before the game started, Mets and Marlins players embraced one another on the diamond.
Then, the entire Marlins team gathered around and behind the mound to pay their respects to Fernández.
In the bottom of the first inning, leadoff hitter Dee Gordon hit a home run during the team's first at-bat and as he rounded the bases, he was overcome with emotion.
Send all complaints, compliments, and tips to sportstips@complex.com.
