When the Pelicans open the season against the Lincoln Saltdogs on May 8, a familiar face will be starting in the outfield. The Pelicans have signed outfielder Rafael Alvarez to a contract for the 2008 season.
Alvarez played with the Pelicans in 2004 and parts of the 2005 seasons. His outstanding 2004 season led to his being named the Central Baseball League Player of the Year. In 60 games, he hit a league best .353 with 21 doubles, 3 triples, 12 home runs, 52 RBI, and 60 runs scored. Alvarez was also voted to the post-season all-star team.
“Rafael is a natural player and knows how to play the game at the highest level,” said Pelicans Manager Mac Seibert. “As a manager, you don’t have to worry about guys like Rafael. It will be fun to watch him play the game.”
The Valencia, Venezuela native returned to the Pelicans in 2005 after his season in the highly talented Mexican League ended. Upon his return, he hit .305 with 5 home runs and 11 RBI in only 15 games. Following the 2005 season, the Pittsburgh Pirates signed Alvarez and sent him to their double-A affiliate, the Altoona Curve.
“The neat thing was that he called us and wanted to play here,” added Seibert on signing Alvarez. “He loves the Pensacola area and has formed many relationships with the fans.”
Alvarez has spent five of his 14-year professional baseball career at the triple-A level with the Minnesota Twins and the Mexican League. His career numbers include an outstanding .292 batting average, 243 doubles, 40 triples, 105 home runs, 585 RBI, and 642 runs scored in 1,146 games. Alvarez first signed with the Twins in 1994.