Dear Jose,

It was similar to watching a little league player in the dugout.

You were always laughing and keeping things loose and honestly, were one of the best teammates anyone could ever ask for.

You never met a stranger.

When anyone came into contact with you, they were automatically drawn in by the smile and you instantly became one of their favorite people.

You were one of the best young talents that Major League Baseball had ever seen. Record-breaking numbers, a blazing fastball, and energy that was never seen before, you brought it all.

Well, God had other plans for you yesterday. He wanted you to join the All-Star staff up there with him and as he rejoiced to have another angel, the world wept.

You brought moments to the sport, on and off the field, that people will never forget.

Ask Tulo, for instance.

You speared a line drive out of the air and he asked if you caught it and with that cheeky grin, you shook your head and said yes. It was things like that, that just made people shake their head because you were the next big thing.

As for me Jose, you were a great baseball player, but I won't let "just a game", overshadow what really defined you.

Your love, respect, and passion for the game and the people around it were on display every single day.

You weren't just an every-fifth-day player, you were a team player and made the Marlins a better organization every day.

You loved your family, teammates, and the sport. Oh, and don't let me forget your grandma.

When she walked into the locker room after not seeing her for years, you couldn't believe it. Your face was priceless and it just instantly showed fans that for you, baseball is just a game but your family is your backbone and that's why you do what you do.

It was an honor watching you. It is ashamed that you were taken from this world so soon, because there is no doubt in my mind that baseball and this world was going to be a better place with you in it.

However, you made a difference in your short, 24 years.

You showed us how to fight when your back is against the wall.

You gave people hope for the future when things looked rough.

Most importantly, you gave people someone to look up to and someone that people strive to be.

I'll never forget what you said back in 2015.

"If you were given a book of the story of your life, would you read the end?"

Your end came too soon and if I'm half the man you were, then I will be happy.

Rest in peace,

Jeremy Johnson