Luis Alvarado, Puerto Rican-American baseball player (d. 2001)

A comprehensive look at the life and career of Luis César Alvarado Martínez, a versatile infielder whose talent graced Major League Baseball for a decade.

Early Life and Baseball Beginnings

Luis César Alvarado Martínez was born on January 15, 1949, in Lajas, a municipality located in the southwestern coastal valley of Puerto Rico. Alvarado's journey into professional baseball began with his emergence as a promising talent from the baseball-rich island, eventually leading him to the highest level of the sport.

Major League Baseball Career: A Decade of Versatility

From 1968 through 1977, Luis Alvarado carved out a notable career as a utility infielder in Major League Baseball. His ability to competently play multiple positions across the infield made him an invaluable asset to every team he played for. A right-handed batter and thrower, Alvarado's adaptability allowed managers significant flexibility in their lineup and defensive strategies.

Teams and Trajectory

Over his ten-season MLB career, Alvarado played for an impressive six different franchises, demonstrating his consistent value and demand across the league. His professional journey saw him contribute to the following teams:

This extensive list of teams highlights his consistent presence in the big leagues and the high regard for his defensive prowess and versatility.

The Role of a Utility Infielder

Alvarado truly embodied the definition of a "utility infielder," a critical role on any successful baseball team. Throughout his career, he appeared most frequently at shortstop, second base, and third base. His career defensive breakdown includes playing in 272 games at shortstop, 229 games at second base, and 44 games at third base, alongside limited appearances in the outfield (4 games in right field, 2 in left field, and 1 at first base). This multi-positional capability meant he could fill in for injured starters, provide defensive upgrades late in games, or simply offer a reliable glove wherever needed.

Career Statistics and Impact

Across 607 Major League games, Luis Alvarado compiled a career batting average of .214. While not known primarily for his bat, his contributions extended beyond offensive numbers. Over his career, he recorded 7 home runs, 91 runs batted in (RBI), and stole 27 bases, showcasing flashes of speed and occasional power. His on-base percentage (OBP) was .272, with a slugging percentage (SLG) of .270. Alvarado's value was predominantly tied to his defensive reliability, his ability to execute fundamental plays, and his understanding of the game, making him a dependable presence on the diamond for a decade.

Legacy and Passing

Luis César Alvarado Martínez passed away on March 20, 2001, at the age of 52. His career, marked by versatility and dedication, remains a testament to the essential role of the utility player in Major League Baseball, a player who quietly but consistently contributes to team success through adaptability and defensive skill.

Frequently Asked Questions about Luis Alvarado

Who was Luis César Alvarado Martínez?
Luis César Alvarado Martínez was a professional baseball player from Puerto Rico who played as a utility infielder in Major League Baseball for ten seasons, from 1968 to 1977.
What positions did Luis Alvarado play?
Alvarado was a highly versatile utility infielder, primarily playing shortstop, second base, and third base. He also made limited appearances at first base and in the outfield.
Which MLB teams did Luis Alvarado play for?
During his career, Luis Alvarado played for six different MLB teams: the Boston Red Sox, Chicago White Sox, St. Louis Cardinals, Cleveland Indians, New York Mets, and Detroit Tigers.
When was Luis Alvarado born and when did he pass away?
Luis Alvarado was born on January 15, 1949, and passed away on March 20, 2001.