When John Cardinal O’Connor is buried today, Yankee pitcher Orlando Hernandez will be among the mourners. The former New York Archbishop was helpful in bringing Hernandez’ family from Cuba, and whether Hernandez is there in person or thinking of O’Connor in his prayers, El Duque says his thoughts will be with O’Connor either way.

“It might conflict [with team obligations],” said Hernandez. “Know this; whether I make it or not, he’ll always be in my heart, and my family’s heart. And we’ll always be very appreciative of what he did for us. Wherever he is, that’s where we’ll be.”