The Marlins wasted no time celebrating the life of Jose Fernandez. In the team's first game since his death, Dee Gordon teed off on Bartolo Colon for a lead-off home run Monday.
Just amazing, @FlashGJr. #JDF16 pic.twitter.com/Tgg03ZSJlt
— MLB (@MLB) September 26, 2016
Gordon burst into tears upon crossing home plate. His Marlins teammates, all wearing No. 16 Fernandez jerseys, greeted him at the top step of the dugout. The team also honored Fernandez' life by leaving the mound -- decorated with a No. 16 -- unoccupied for the national anthem.
.@Marlins pay their respects to the amazing José Fernández.
Full tribute: https://t.co/TxOkTzGBa8 #JDF16 pic.twitter.com/AlHC3dPTPP— MLB (@MLB) September 27, 2016
Gordon, Fernandez' teammate for two seasons, posted an emotional Instagram tribute to the pitcher Sunday.
Fernandez was killed in a boating accident early Sunday. The Marlins' game scheduled for Sunday afternoon against the Braves was canceled.
The Marlins are retiring Fernandez' No. 16. The two-time All-Star and 2013 N.L. Rookie of the Year was 24.
José watching @FlashGJr’s homer from above. #JDF16 pic.twitter.com/ZUmNA4CmHH
— MLB GIFS (@MLBGIFs) September 26, 2016
-- Follow Jeffrey Eisenband on Twitter @JeffEisenband.