Joe Alvarez

Joe Alvarez, born José René Álvarez Ramírez on June 11, 1956, is a Cuban American baseball manager and former utility infielder in Minor League Baseball. Standing at 5' 9" (1.75 m) and weighing 165 lb. (74 kg), Alvarez played primarily at shortstop for the New York Yankees, Houston Astros, and Baltimore Orioles organizations during his four seasons in the minors. Although known for his slick fielding skills, he struggled as a hitter. After reaching Class Double A in 1977, Alvarez's playing career ended due to an injury. He was born in Manzanillo, Cuba, but grew up in Elizabeth, New Jersey, attending St. Patrick High School. Alvarez was drafted by the Yankees in the third round of the 1974 MLB Draft and began his professional career with the Johnson City Yankees in the Appalachian League. He transitioned to the Houston organization in 1975 through an off-season transaction with the Yankees.