Healing Begins As Teammates Channel Jose Fernandez's Fiery Spirit
Follow CBSMIAMI.COM: Facebook | Twitter
MIAMI (CBSMiami) – The healing begins as teammates, family, friends and the community reflect on Jose Fernandez's energy, his impact and his story being celebrated nationwide.
After the Marlins had beaten the Mets on Monday, the players circled the mound in a post-game tribute to Fernandez.
It was Giancarlo Stanton who praised his team mates for the way they held up.
"I'll tell you, it was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do," he told the team. "But I'm glad I went through it with every single one of you."
Even before the first pitch, Stanton urged everyone to fight through their pain and play their best for Marlin fans that came out in Fernandez's honor.
"We need to come together as hard as it's gonna be to show and express that because that's all these people have at the moment," Stanton said.
No player took those words to heart more than Dee Gordon. After slugging an improbable leadoff home run, Gordon simply could not fight back the tears.
"That was one of the best things that ever happened in my life, probably the best. I don't have kids, so that's one of the best things I've ever done in my life," Gordon said.
Gordon's big blow sent the Marlins on their way to an emotional seven to three win.
And after they circled the mound and paused to pray, another impromptu idea.
"Let's leave our hats," a player shouted out.
It was the final act in a night of unscripted moments, all serving to help the Marlins move forward in the face of tragedy.
