Folks across Tampa and the south Florida area are mourning the loss of a baseball star. Miami Marlins pitcher and Bay Area native Jose Fernandez died in a boating accident Sunday.
Fernandez started his baseball career at Alonso High school. He helped the team win a state championship in 2011.
Former teammates say he had a huge heart.
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"He dominated, but he had respect for everybody and respect for the game. But if you tried his dominance, you know, he showed it. That's what I think made him such an exciting player to watch," said former teammate Nathan Hahn.
Jose Fernandez was also known as a major inspiration to people in the Cuban community. Having tried to defect from Cuba three times before finally making it to the United States in 2008.
MORE | Miami Marlins pitcher and Alonso High graduate Jose Fernandez killed in boating accident
"As much as he was a great player, as much as he was a great pitcher, but besides that, he was a great human being. And for that. As a Cuban American I feel very proud," friend Mario Quevedo told ABC Action News.
Another sad note to this story, just six days ago Jose Fernandez posted a picture to Instagram of his pregnant girlfriend. Talking about his excitement about starting a family.
Friends and former teammates are hoping to hold a vigil for Jose Fernandez at Alonso High School sometime this week.
READ MORE | Jose Fernandez: A loss for MLB baseball, a tear in the fabric of Tampa Bay area sports
