Marlins, family remember Jose Fernandez on what would have been his 25th birthday

As baseball fans fixated on Major League Baseball's trade deadline, another significant date arrived more quietly on Monday: It would have been Jose Fernandez’s 25th birthday.

Last summer, a tragic boating accident took the life of the former Miami Marlins right-hander. Ten months later, Fernandez’s former teammates and family honored his memory once again.

Fernandez’s mother, Maritza, returned to the crash site, spray painting a rock with her son’s initials, throwing pedals in the ocean and lighting 25 candles on the rocks near Miami Beach as well.

Second baseman Dee Gordon carried Fernandez’s baby daughter, Penelope, around Marlins Park, culminating with emotional moments when she reached out for a picture of her father and stood in front of his former locker.

Fernandez's charisma and transcendent baseball ability earned him friends and admirers far beyond the Marlins, and that, too, was evident Monday.

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"It was a nice surprise," Marlins manager Don Mattingly said. "It was great to see the little girl and Jose's mom and everyone. And it's also a reminder of last year."

Contributing: AP

Gallery: Jose Fernandez