The dog that bit David Cone's finger and launched El Duque's career has passed away

Somewhere, Orlando Hernandez is mourning.

David Cone's mom's dog, Veronica, has passed away. If you recall, the Jack Russell Terrior bit Cone's finger in June, 1998, causing him to miss a start. Joe Torre slotted in Orlando Hernandez for his first big league appearance, and the rest is history.

The Cuban right-hander went on to win four World Series rings, rack up 90 wins and pull off one of the coolest plays in baseball history. 

It's two days until Thanksgiving, but let's give some thanks to little Veronica. You have to believe she's going to doggy heaven, even if she did take a nip at Cone's finger.