Yankees’ Elmer Rodriguez ‘started crying’ watching cousins take top two spots in Kentucky Derby
New York Yankees rookie Elmer Rodríguez became emotional watching his cousins José Ortiz and Irad Ortiz Jr. finish first and second in the Kentucky Derby. Rodríguez, who recently made his MLB debut, said he was more nervous watching the race than during his own debut. The event marked a proud family moment as the Ortiz brothers achieved a top-two finish at Churchill Downs.
- ▪Elmer Rodríguez recently made his MLB debut with the Yankees before the Kentucky Derby.
- ▪José Ortiz won the Kentucky Derby riding Golden Tempo, while Irad Ortiz Jr. finished second on Renegade.
- ▪Rodríguez said he was more nervous watching the race than during his own debut and began crying.
- ▪Carlos Rodón is expected to return soon, likely ending Rodríguez’s current stint with the Yankees.
- ▪Rodríguez made his second start for the Yankees against the Rangers on Tuesday.
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MLB New York Yankees Yankees’ Elmer Rodriguez ‘started crying’ watching cousins take top two spots in Kentucky Derby By Dan Martin Published May 3, 2026, 11:23 p.m. ET Rookie right-hander Elmer Rodríguez, just days after making his MLB debut with the Yankees, had another memorable moment Saturday, as two of his cousins rode in the Kentucky Derby and finished first and second. José Ortiz took Golden Tempo to the winner’s circle at Churchill Downs, with Irad Ortiz Jr. aboard favorite Renegade finishing second. Elmer Rodríguez throws a pitch during the Yankees’ April 29 game against the Rangers.
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