San Diego Padre players stood around a large No. 19 etched on Petco Park's field Wednesday night as the entire stadium fell silent to remember the iconic Tony Gwynn.
It lasted 19 seconds.
The players displayed Gwynn's number on their uniforms and the No. 19 was featured throughout the stadium grounds.
Some fans wiped away tears as they draped flowers beneath the Gwynn statue outside the stadium.
It was part of an emotional ceremony preceding the Padres' first home game since the hall of famer died on Monday.
The evening was filled with Tony.
Aztec players, wearing No. 19 jerseys, threw out the ceremonial first pitch. Then, fans in the stadium watched a video tribute to Gwynn, showing highlights from throughout his 20-year season.
In anticipation of Wednesday night’s game, the Padres added No. 19 patches to team jerseys and batting practice hats. Gwynn’s jersey was also being displayed inside the stadium and “Mr. Padre” lit up the scoreboard.
Since Gwynn’s death, a steady stream of fans have flocked to the statue at Petco Park, paying respects and draping flowers there.
On Thursday, San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer is encouraging San Diegans to wear Gwynn gear to the workplace.
“I encourage all of San Diego to pay tribute to Number 19 on the 19th,” Faulconer said in a news release.
