And it was a half a century ago.
I think we had this discussion once before. Declaring one's self "staunchly pro union" just because one's father was a "union man" is a quaint sentiment but hardly the sort of principle that a Prince of the The Church should nourish. It belies bias and stubbornness but alas, if I may borrow your logic, growing up Catholic in a place like St. Louis as Dolan did would make anyone that way; indeed, would make one a typical American democrat(catholic). Again, to each his own; but I don't think failing to outgrow that sort of blind obedience to habit is healthy thing for anyone; I think it's absolutely unacceptable in a leader.
In any event, however "pro-union" Dolan is, he made the remarks to send a message to what he presumed was the makeup of Catholic New York. In other words, alongside his remarks about being "a Yankees fan", it was PR. He's a PR man. His methods are quite of this world. He places machine-gun toting guards outside his Church. He's a Prince alright.
Incidentally, while you're asking him about his advocacy of universal healthcare, ask him if he was a Yankees fan when he was in Milwaukee.
Very true.