This has been the biggest source of criticism for Hagel since Obama picked him to replace Leon Panetta in December and the rawest nerve for the Republicans with whom Hagel broke over the war in Iraq.

CNN: Five things Chuck Hagel may be asked about

That gives him clout with those seeking to reform the nerve center of the church that has been discredited by revelations of leaks and complaints from cardinals in the field that Rome is inefficient and unresponsive to their needs.

NPR: Conclave To Elect Next Pope Opens Amid Uncertainty

Sitting in a chair at his locker wearing khakis and a long-sleeve shirt, Youkilis said he thinks the same bulge of a disk that caused him problems last year was "basically rubbing" a nerve, leading to discomfort on his right side.

WSJ: Yankees INF Youkilis happy with back prognosis