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Astros Respond To Passing of Marlins’ José Fernández

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  • Updated: September 25, 2016

The Houston Astros organization responded to the heartbreaking news of the sudden passing of Florida Marlins’ pitcher, José Fernández, September 25: “It is with heavy hearts that we send our deepest condolences to the Miami Marlins organization and to José’s friends, family and loved ones.”

He had compiled a 38-17 record, and a 2.58 ERA in his 4-year career with the Marlins.

Astros’ outfielder Jake Marisnick, who played on the Marlins (2013-14) with Fernández: “On the field, off the field - everything he did was unreal.” Continuing, he said, “I was hoping it was something that wasn’t true, and to find out it was…it hurts your heart, y’know?”

Astros’ pitcher Lance McCullers‘ reaction: “I am heartbroken right now… RIP my man, your kind heart and smile will never be forgotten…” McCullers said, Sunday, that he had spoken to Fernández two weeks ago, and the two had even discussed going fishing in the offseason. Tampa native McCullers and Fernández had trained together (during summers and offseasons) when the former was about 15, and Fernández was a couple years older.

Yulieski Gurriel (3B) remembers younger brother, Lourdes, playing with Fernández in his native Cuba: “It’s very sad. I’m shocked this morning. It’s not only a blow for Cuba, but for all of baseball, and all of the U.S.; it’s just incredibly sad. He had a lot of followers in Cuba, even though he didn’t particularly play in the league in Cuba, he still had a huge following in Cuba.” Yuli has a Fernández #16 Astros jersey hanging in his locker.

Astros’ manager A.J. Hinch: “I’ve always appreciated watching him. He was must-see TV when it comes to how he pitched, the energy that he brought, the pride he brought to Cuban-Americans and throughout baseball. I join everybody in condolences to his family. The baseball world took a big blow today.”

Bobby Dynamite (Minute Maid Park’s “Train Guy”): “Heartbroken for the @Marlins family to wake up to the news of .”

Astros broadcaster Robert Ford: “At a loss for words after learning about the death of José Fernández. My heart goes out to his family, friends & teammates. RIP.”

Corpus Christi Hooks’ (Astros’ AA affiliate) Manager Rodney Linares: “My condolences to the Fernández Family. There are no words to describe the sickness and sadness I feel this morning .I.P.”

Astros’ pitcher Brady Rodgers: “Can’t believe the game lost one of the best pitchers! Totally shocked!”

Astros’ catcher Max Stassi: “Thoughts and prayers to José Fernández’s family and friends. We lost one of the most electric pitchers of our era.”

Tri-City ValleyCats (Astros’ Class A Short Season team): “A tragic day for the baseball world.”

Astros’ AAA Fresno Grizzlies: “The Fresno Grizzlies extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to José Fernández’s family, friends and the Miami Marlins organization.”

Geoff Blum (former player, current Astros’ broadcaster): “A true ambassador of the joy of baseball has been lost. RIP José Fernández.”

Astros’ pitcher Dallas Keuchel: “RIP Jose. May you forever have the best seat in the big house watching the game you loved. Thoughts & prayers for his family & and friends.”

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Brad Kyle

Seen here, meeting Nolan Ryan at Dell Diamond in Round Rock (TX), around the turn of the century.

Brad was born and raised in the shadow of what eventually became Colt Stadium, and then, in '65, the Astrodome.

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