10-year Marliniversary: Fernández dies in boating crash

[Mike Ferguson]

With the 2026 season approaching its end, there have been many great pitchers to toe the rubber for the Miami Marlins over the years. One, however, could argue that no one brought more flare to the mound than José Fernández.

The 2013 National League Rookie of the Year and a two-time All-Star, the world said goodbye to Fernández on this day 10 years ago. Fernández and two others died in a boating crash in the early morning hours of Sept. 25, 2016.

Fernández was piloting his boat that struck a jetty at Miami Beach before dawn. Investigations later determined that Fernández was going 65 miles per hour while under the influence of drugs. The impact killed the 24-year-old Fernández and both passengers onboard – 27-year-old Emilio Macias and 25-year-old Eduardo Rivero.

The tragedy struck the South Florida community as well as the Miami Marlins and has since complicated the legacy of a blossoming young talent. In addition to his teammates and family, Fernández left behind a daughter who had yet to be born. Fernández and his pregnant girlfriend had announced that they were expecting their first child just days prior to the fatal crash.

While Fernández’s story is certainly a tragic tale and by all accounts, could have been avoided, his efforts as a pitcher were a sight to behold. At 6-foot-3 and 240 pounds with a devastating breaking ball, Fernández went 38-17 over four seasons in the big leagues while posting a career 2.58 ERA.

Fernández continues to hold Miami single-season records for fewest hits allowed per nine innings and strikeouts. The club’s career leader in win percentage, Fernández also ranks in the top 10 in club history in wins, strikeouts and complete games.

A Cuban exile, Fernández left fans with great memories over a short period of time. He died much too young. The world said goodbye to Fernández on this day a decade ago.

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