The 2009 swine flu pandemic affected thousands of people around the world and — according to Pedro Martinez — the World Series, as well.

“It wasn’t told, but most of us were sick,” the former Phillies pitcher told the Philadelphia Inquirer. “Some of the guys had swine flu and had to be kept away. I caught some of the virus. We would just never say it. When I got home, I realized that I was really sick.”

The Yankees defeated the Phillies in six games for their most recent title a decade ago with Martinez starting Games 2 and 6 — both victories by the Yankees. The Hall of Famer said he felt fine in Game 2, but was feeling off in Game 6 when he allowed four runs in four innings.

“I had a little bit of an asthma attack in the middle of the game and I was having a hard time breathing,” the long-time Yankees antagonist said. “I was really sick. In any other situation, I wouldn’t be out there. But the team needed me. I held on as long as I could and I did that. I was really proud to have my last game with the Phillies at Yankee Stadium.”

On Sunday, the Phillies celebrated the 10th anniversary of their ’09 National League title. Martinez rejoined his former teammates and threw out the ceremonial first pitch before a game against the White Sox.