The sports world can be a small world. And sometimes, that world even has family connections that run from Yankee Stadium to Churchill Downs.
Like millions of others around the world, Yankees rookie pitcher Elmer Rodríguez watched Saturday's Kentucky Derby with great interest. But for Rodríguez, there were also lots of nerves involved. Because for him, it was personal.
Rodríguez's cousins -- José Ortiz and his brother, Irad -- were both jockeys in the Derby, with José riding long-shot Golden Tempo across the finish line for an incredible come-from-behind win. If that weren't enough, Irad Ortiz Jr. finished second atop Renegade.
Rodríguez told media members Sunday at Yankee Stadium that he was more nervous watching the race than he was when he made his MLB debut on Wednesday. He said he started crying when he saw his cousins finish 1-2 in the race, understandably filled with pride.
An MLB debut and a Kentucky Derby win in the same week? They'll certainly have lots to talk about at the next family gathering.