The baseball world was dealt a devastating blow on Sunday, with news of the death of 24-year-old Miami Marlins star pitcher Jose Fernandez, who was tragically killed Sunday morning in a boating accident that also took the lives of two others.
San Francisco Chronicle columnist Bruce Jenkins joined Marty Laurie’s pre-game show to discuss the loss of one of Major League Baseball’s most beloved and energetic figures.
“He was a guy who really touched your heart with his joy for the game,” Jenkins said. “What he’d come from and all that he’d come through and all the gratitude he showed. He was just out to have a really good time and display his talent like the great entertainers do.”
A native of Cuba, Fernandez endured three unsuccessful defection attempts, and was subsequently thrown in jail three times, before reaching Mexico on his fourth attempt. Fernandez had to save his mother from drowning on that attempt, when turbulent waves knocked her overboard.
Fernandez was one of the best pitchers in baseball, with two All-Star appearances in both his full seasons, and a career ERA of 2.58. He was known for his infectious smile and entertaining persona on the mound.
“Just full of energy and life and fun,” Jenkins said. “Tears all around baseball. Just an inconceivable loss.”
