Baseball teams react to the tragic deaths of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew

On Thursday, NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were tragically killed while cycling in New Jersey as they prepared for their sister's wedding, which was supposed to take place in Philadelphia on Friday.

It is a tragic loss for the family and (secondarily) for the world of sports. Johnny Gaudreau won the Hobey Baker Award at Boston College and is currently a star for the Columbus Blue Jackets. Matthew played at Boston College and in the minor leagues.

On Friday, various Major League Baseball teams with ties to the team or family released statements and messages on social media.

The Cincinnati Reds honored the brothers before their game against the Milwaukee Brewers. Since Columbus and Cincinnati are both in Ohio, many Reds fans are likely fans of the Blue Jackets as well.

We are deeply saddened for our friends at the Blue Jackets and regret the tragic loss of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. We extend our deepest condolences to the Gaudreau family, their friends, the NHL and the entire Columbus Blue Jackets organization.

The Boston Red Sox also “posted” a message from the Boston College men’s ice hockey team.

We extend our deepest condolences to the Gaudreau family and the hockey community.

Although they haven't posted anything yet, it would be appropriate for the Cleveland Guardians to post something on Friday. The Guardians play at home against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The first pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET.

The Blue Jackets open the regular season on October 10 against the Minnesota Wild. The organization's first home game is October 15.

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