Fernandez’s girlfriend delivers daughter

JUPITER – Jose Fernandez’s daughter was born Friday night, a source confirmed to the Sun Sentinel, and the family’s attorney said she will be the subject of a court filing early next week that will seek to establish her as the beneficiary of Fernandez’s estate.

Maria Arias, Fernandez’s girlfriend when he died last September, delivered their child, Penelope, one day shy of the five-month anniversary of Fernandez’s death.

Arias has developed a close bond with Maritza Gomez Fernandez, Jose Fernandez’s mother, according to family attorney (of no relation) Ralph Fernandez. The two spent a significant amount of time together late in Arias’ pregnancy.

“For the last few weeks, they’ve been peas in a pod,” Ralph Fernandez said. “There’s a familial connection there. They are peas in a pod in this part of the adventure.”

Ralph Fernandez said he plans to file court papers on Tuesday.

“Once there is confirmation that there is a new heir, a new beneficiary,” Ralph Fernandez said. “We want to make sure everybody understands how grateful we are for the overwhelming support in the worst of times, which likewise translates to the few good times.”

Jose Fernandez, the Marlins’ right-handed ace, and two others, Eduardo Rivero and Emilio Jesus Macias, were killed in a boat crash off Miami Beach early on the morning of Sept. 25. He was 24 years old. The crash is still under investigation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Rivero and Macias’ families are each seeking $2 million in lawsuits alleging negligence on the pitcher’ s part and for personal injuries.

In January, Maritza Gomez Fernandez filed a petition to administer her son’s estate.

The estate is estimated to be worth $2 million to $3 million.

In the Marlins’ spring training clubhouse at Roger Dean Stadium on Saturday, news of Penelope’s birth was welcomed in advance of the team’s first exhibition game.

“It’s going to bring a lot of peace and happiness to both families and friends, and even us,” said Marlins third baseman Martin Prado. “Just happy to see a piece of Jose that is going to grow. She’s going to be so blessed.”