"It's difficult," Arias said. "You talk by phone, and you ask your mom and siblings to talk to you with the truth. Sadly, we've suffered a lot. We're waiting for God to do his will, and you have to be prepared mentally."

Felipe Arias suffered a stroke in December, which occurred nearly 16 years after he had his first stroke.

Of the 21 children Felipe Arias fathered, two of the eight he had with Alberto's mother landed in the major leagues. Texas Rangers infielder Joaquin Arias is Alberto's brother.

"He cried of joy a lot when we made it to the majors," Arias said. "He never was able to attend our games in the majors, but at least he saw us on TV. Whatever happens, he'll always be in my heart."