Soler, Chapman among Cubs rocked by Fernandez’s death

CHICAGO — Cubs outfielder Jorge Soler played with Jose Fernandez when they were 11-12 years old and growing up in Cuba. They stayed in touch when both became big leaguers, and saw each other in the offseason in Miami. On Sunday, Soler woke up to the news that his friend was killed in a boating accident in Miami.

“It’s sad. It’s a great loss of such a great pitcher with such potential,” Soler said. “I think all of us in baseball are feeling a heavy heart.”

Fernandez, a star pitcher for the Marlins, died early Sunday in the accident at Miami Beach. He was 24.

The Cubs had a moment of silence before Sunday’s game, and the players hung a No. 16 jersey with “Fernandez” on the back in the dugout. On the Wrigley Field scoreboard, the only visiting pitcher number listed for out of town scores was No. 16.

Jose Fernandez: 1992-2016 Beloved star Fernandez dies in tragic accident Fernandez’s life a tale of the American Dream United Marlins mourn loss of Fernandez Fans pay tribute to Fernandez at Marlins Park Baseball community mourns Fernandez together Fernandez fondly recalled by fellow Cubans Taken far too young, Fernandez not alone MLB statement mourning passing of Jose Fernandez Marlins statement on Jose Fernandez Loria statement on passing of Fernandez Fernandez’s career stats Marlins president Samson on tragedy More Fernandez remembrances and highlights More coverage ¬Marlins’ playoff picture meaningless at momentPuig tearfully recalls his friend FernandezLupica: Our hearts break: RIP Jose FernandezFernandez’s death hits McCullers hardOrtiz cancels ceremony; honors friend FernandezBraves mourn Fernandez at Marlins ParkPirates mourn loss of ‘wonderful’ FernandezCishek, Mariners reflect on life of FernandezMets mourn Fernandez’s ‘love for the game’Fernandez’s death resonates with SciosciaNeal, Alonso mourn their friend FernandezNats, Fernandez’s final opponent, remember aceD-backs remember ace for charisma, devotion to gameIglesias, Tigers mourn Fernandez’s passingPadres’ players remember Fernandez’s joyBrewers’ lineup honors Fernandez vs. RedsDyson remembers former teammate FernandezGiants saddened by Fernandez’s passingReds mourn loss of FernandezPhils’ Herrera remembers Fernandez’s humility, passionRockies recall Fernandez’s smile, joy for gameIndians react to tragic passing of FernandezWhite Sox mourn loss of superstar FernandezTwins reflect on passing …

continue reading in source mlb.mlb.com