In the heartbreaking world of chronic illness, where battles are fought daily with an unseen enemy, New York Mets pitcher Jorge López has been waging a war on two fronts. While dealing with his son Mikael Andrés’ ongoing battle with autoimmune diseases, López has also faced a turbulent time in his professional career, culminating in his recent controversial release from the Mets.

“It’s a great responsibility,” López said to the Latino tabloid Our Esquina, his usually jovial demeanor replaced with a pensive tone as he reflected on the weight of fatherhood. Mikael spends the majority of his time at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, battling Familial Mediterranean fever and Crohn’s disease. The separation weighs heavily on López, who acknowledges, “It’s an honor to be Mikael’s father and to be blessed to give him what my mother and father were never able to give me.”

A seven-month MLB season coupled with Mikael’s medical needs in Ohio means father and son spend painfully little time together. However, technology has become their lifeline, with daily phone calls and FaceTime sessions serving as a bridge across the miles. “I learned a lot from my dad,” Jorge López reminisces about his own father, who was often absent due to his parents’ divorce. “He is very responsible in terms of work ethic in that we never lacked anything. Although he was not there, he was present.”

Despite the distance, López finds motivation in his family. His career not only fuels his passion for the game but also provides the financial means to deal with the mounting medical costs and frequent moves. He credits his wife, Karla, whom he calls his nucleus, for her unwavering support and strength during these trying times. “I am so proud of my wife,” he says. “I am so grateful to have her in my life.”

Amidst the challenges of his son’s health and his recent departure from the Mets, a ray of hope emerged in late May. Mikael’s health had improved enough for him to travel to Boston to watch his father pitch against the Boston Red Sox. Mikael’s ninth birthday saw the highlight of the trip when he witnessed his father secure a four-out save. López shared, “It was beautiful to have him by my side,” cherishing the rare opportunity to spend quality time with his son—“and to have the distraction of my family.”

Jorge López—A father and husband whose love transcends the diamond

López believes his wife, mother, and kid are the reasons he is an MLB player today. It’s not simply his love of the game that drives him to improve each day. He is inspired to play since his career allows the family to cover all of the medical expenses and transfers.

Mikael has seen his father on the mound before. In fact, Jorge López was enjoying one of his greatest seasons as a major league pitcher when Mikael’s doctors allowed him to play. That was three years ago, and it was Mikael’s birthday. The night before, he had already watched his father’s 12-8 comeback triumph over the Red Sox. The next day, on Mikael’s birthday, he saw López make a four-out save. Mikael has been steadfastly loyal to his father.

López’s recent outburst, where he labeled himself the “worst teammate probably in the whole f—ing MLB,” has added to the complexity of his predicament. While the Mets chose to DFA him following the event, it’s critical to note the context of his statements. According to Mets beat reporter Manny Gómez, López’s native language is not English, and his emotions were high after getting booted from the game.

Despite the problems and hardships, López’s devotion for his kid is unshakeable. It’s a passion that extends beyond the baseball pitch, fueling his desire to be the greatest parent he can be. “Having breakfast together, playing together, relaxing and showing each other love, we need that to be able to move forward,” he remarked, emphasizing the value of family in the middle of professional sports pandemonium.

The future may be uncertain for Jorge López, but his love for his son Mikael Andrés will always be his greatest responsibility, his greatest motivation, and his greatest joy.