Jose Fernandez, pitcher for the Miami Marlins, was killed in a boating accident in Florida early Sunday morning at the age of 24. The 32-foot boat was found overturned on a jetty off the coast of Miami Beach by the Coast Guard around 3 a.m. He was one of three men killed, all of whom were confirmed to not have been wearing life jackets during the incident. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Fernandez died from trauma, not drowning. The sports world along with his family and friends were devastated upon hearing the unfortunate news.

Jose Fernandez was not only the ace for the Miami Marlins, but a symbol for the Cuban community. At a young age, Fernandez desperately wanted to leave Cuba for the opportunities America had to offer. Fernandez tried to defect from Cuba by sea three times, each of which he was intercepted and imprisoned by the Coast Guard. Only the fourth time was he successfully able to reach Mexico. During this final journey, his mother fell overboard and 15-year-old Fernandez jumped in to save her. In 2008, his family successfully made it into the United States and settled in Tampa.

Jose Fernandez is an icon for the Cuban culture because of his passion, legendary profile and humble beginning. Many people outside of the Cuban community also regard Fernandez as a man greater than the game of baseball. He played the game with exuberance and joy, dominating his opponents while still maintaining a smile on his face. He was one of baseball’s greatest young stars and is referred to as one of the most exciting pitchers in baseball.

Fernandez premiered in the Major Leagues in 2013 after being drafted 14th overall by the Miami Marlins. In that same year he received the 2013 Rookie of the Year Award, and was voted third for the Cy Young Award at only 21 years of age. Three years later this fatal accident has brought his memorable career to an end.  

Players mourned his loss by taping “Fernandez” jerseys to their dugouts and taking to social media to express the effect he had on both the game of baseball and the lives he touched. This Monday, during the Marlin’s first game back after the tragedy against the New York Mets, players and announcers were brought to tears after the entire team honored Fernandez by huddling around the mound, where they all drew “#16” into the dirt. In addition, each player on the team wore jerseys with #16 and his last name, “Fernandez”, on the back. The Miami Marlins plan to retire Fernandez’s jersey in respect to his short, yet impactful life.  

The 24 year old leaves behind a loving family including his pregnant girlfriend Carla Mendoza, as well as supporting fans.