Miami Dolphins will hold moment of silence for Jose Fernandez

The Miami Dolphins will hold a moment of silence for former Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez, who died on Saturday.

The Miami Dolphins will be holding a moment of silence before Sunday’s game to honor the life of Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez. The Marlins ace died on Sunday in a boating accident at the age of 24. He was arguably Miami’s most popular athlete because of his success and his inspiring life story.

Before kickoff vs. Browns, Dolphins will hold moment of silence for Marlins P Jose Fernandez, per team official. https://t.co/Q769A6EsrA

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 25, 2016

Fernandez’s death is especially hard on the Miami community that is heavily Cuban and Latino. As a Cuban, Fernandez stood as a hero and a role model for the entire community. Fernandez defected from Cuba, but not before failing to do so three times. He spent time in jail after each failed attempt. During his fourth attempt, he saved his mother’s life after she fell overboard.

The Marlins have already canceled their game on Sunday, as the players and front office are in no position to play after Fernandez’s tragic death. Fernandez was the first pitcher ever to win his first 17 home starts as well as go 24-1 in his first 25 home starts. He won the NL Rookie of the Year award in 2013 and fought back from a Tommy John surgery in 2014.

Fernandez’s death is especially tragic because he was also a father. One of the league’s most popular and respected players, Fernandez’s death is nothing short of a horrible tragedy.