The Journey of Jose Fernandez: A Baseball Prodigy's Rise to Prominence in MLB
By Oliver Wiener June 09, 2024 08:49
Jose Fernandez is born in Santa Clara, Cuba. He fell in love with the game playing on the street in Santa Clara with boyhood friend Aledmys Diaz, now a shortstop with the St. Louis Cardinals.
Fernandez was inspired to play baseball and began being a professional baseball player when he saw it more suitable for him as he had his family to pull him, especially his uncle, towards a baseball path to pursue his dream career.
Switching Loyalties and Migrating to the U.S
The road to the MLB was not an easy one for Fernandez.
He managed to defect on the fourth try, in December 2007 at 15, after his mother fell overboard during their voyage to the United States, and he saved her life.
They eventually settled in Tampa, Florida and Fernandez transferred to Braulio Alonso High School.
Early Career and MLB Draft
Fernandez is the Miami Marlin's first-round draft choice in 2011. Although he struggled with his command at the outset, it was clear he had the goods to be a premier arm.
He signed a $2 million season bonus and swiftly rose as a promising young pitcher with an array of talents.
MLB Debut and Early Success
Fernandez arrived at the Marlins on April 7, 2013, the major leagues, pitching outstandingly well, prompting fans and analysts to take note immediately.
His stellar performance earned him an All-Star selection in the National League that year as well.
Major League Career Impact and Accomplishments
Fernandez was a prodigy for all to see even throughout his rookie season setting and breaking records and collecting awards.
A National League Rookie of the Year Award and third in Cy Young Award voting, his top quality whispering capabilities on the field had set him up to be one of the biggest movers and shakers in the league.
Challenges and Setbacks
After becoming an overnight sensation in the big leagues, Fernandez was not immune to the speed bumps, including having Tommy John surgery performed on him in '14.
But in the face of these hurdles, he showed perseverance and grit, proving that his dedication to the sport was unbreakable.
Legacy and Tragic End
His influence stretched deeper than the baseball field.
He became an inspiration for young hopeful athletes, especially those from similar backgrounds.
Unfortunately, his career was brought to a quick and unfortunate end with his untimely passing in a boating accident on September 25, 2016 where he and two others lost their lives.
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