Living A Dream — Eddy Alvarez

Over the last two weeks, there have been many headlines around Major League Baseball. Some good. Some bad. Sadly, we are living in tough times.

Still, with baseball now in full swing — and once again in the minds of so many — it was great to see one story that has really touched my life. And, it will touch yours as well.

In my 13+ seasons working in the minors as a PR guy, I’ve come across many players. Many stick out. Some more than others.

For parts of three seasons (2016–2018), one of those players that I’ll always remember is Eddy Alvarez. I’ll remember his smile — because he always seemed to be smiling. I’ll remember his work ethic — because he always seemed to be hustling. He was one of those guys you found yourself rooting for in the press box — when you’re not supposed to be rooting in the press box.

Over the years, Eddy wowed us with his defense and brought a positive vibe to the atmosphere of the team. Already a star as a Silver Medal winner at the 2014 Olympics at Sochi in Speedskating, Eddy turned to baseball after that time and worked hard so that he could one day live the dream of playing in the majors.

After his final season in the Chicago White Sox system in 2018, Eddy signed with his hometown Miami Marlins and had a memorable 2019 season. In 66 games with the New Orleans Baby Cakes (Triple-A Marlins), he hit .323 with 12 home runs, 43 RBIs, and 12 stolen bases. From Charlotte, we continued to follow his story.

Eddy’s success in 2019 led to high hopes for 2020. Although COVID-19 played delayed the season, the hard-working infielder took one step closer to the majors when the season returned and the Marlins had their share of players testing positive for the virus.

On August 3, the Marlins selected his contract from their alternate site and two days later, he made his major league debut on August 5. Four days later, he recorded his first major league hit — a single off New York Mets ace Jacob deGrom.

Since then, he’s had tons of national media coverage including ESPN, USA Today, Sports Illustrated, CNN, The Athletic, Yahoo! Sports, and MLB.com, to name a few. One after the next. All telling the story of this hard-working kid from Miami who has done a lot to be proud of.

On August 18, his story was featured on the season premiere of HBO Real Sports.

To the relief of his brother, 30-year-old @Marlins rookie @EddyAlvarez90, a former speed-skating prodigy and Olympian, ditched his tights for Major League Baseball. #RealSports is all-new tonight on @HBO. pic.twitter.com/JTlMgGThX4

— Real Sports (@RealSportsHBO) August 18, 2020

When I see a player go from the minors to the majors after putting in the hard work, I’m always extremely happy for them. I have been in my PR role for a long time now and that feeling seems to get even more special each year. Maybe I’m old, but there really is something special about watching the success of former players I have been around. I’ll tell you one thing for sure — that feeling never gets old.

Good luck this year and in the future, Eddy! We’re all pulling for you here in Charlotte.

And, on one final note — I had the chance to interview Eddy a few times during his time with the Knights and it was always upbeat and fun. This one was definitely my favorite!