Nacho Alvarez Jr. has full-circle moment with Team Mexico

HOUSTON – The aroma of an onion scraping the grill during a carne asada, or the sizzle of hot dogs placed at the top of the grill usually meant a packed house at the Alvarez residence in Fontana, Calif. If Nacho Alvarez Jr.’s family was grilling food and inviting his family over, it meant a huge Mexican event was occurring. 

Alvarez and his family watched intense boxing matches featuring Saul “Canelo” Alvarez. They reunited to watch Mexico national team soccer games. The Braves’ young infielder remembers the infamous “no era penal” game between the Netherlands and Mexico, which Mexico lost in heartbreaking fashion after Netherland drew a penalty kick late. 

The 22-year-old slugger’s family would often find an excuse to get together. During these major sporting events his cousins were there to talk about the game. Even after the reunion was over they kept a close contact speaking about current events about Mexican sports. 

“I can’t even put into words what it means for me and my family,” Alvarez said. “It’s an honor to wear these colors. I’ve said it in every interview, I feel like. I’ve grown up watching the Mexican soccer team and baseball team, it’s surreal honestly.”

Debuting with a bang

The 5-foot-10 third baseman debuted for Team Mexico by launching a solo home run against Great Britain in the top of the second inning. A typically reserved Alvarez jumped jubilantly and beat his chest as he rounded second base. 

He conceded that he blacked out and let his emotions take over. Nacho Alvarez Jr. has hit plenty of home runs, but the one he hit last Friday night in the World Baseball Classic may be the biggest of his career. It was certainly the most significant thus far for Alvarez. What he felt during his home run trot was a tribute to his loved ones who helped him arrive to this moment.

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“I don’t think that was just me,” he said. “That was for my grandparents, my parents. This is bigger than me right now. I’m playing for my whole family.”

Mexico features four prominent All-Stars in the daily lineup. They have six in total. He also plays with Ronald Acuña Jr. in Atlanta. Alvarez admitted he’s picked up a few lessons working closely with these All-Stars. 

Humble Nacho Alvarez Jr.

The hard work speaks for itself. He’s also picked up on a personality trait that his Mexico teammates share.

“The biggest thing that has stuck out to me is that the guys who have had success are really humble and always on the attack, never in the defense,” Alvarez said. “I feel like a lot of the guys here and in the Braves are always in the attack but really good dudes.” 

Mexico manager Benji Gil has entrusted the third base job to Alvarez, the Braves’ fifth ranked prospect. Gil has Alvarez penciled in the lineup behind All-Stars and in front of established major leaguers. While he is the player with the least experience in the majors, Gil has noticed the potential the young player has.

“He’s a tremendous player who is getting more recognition in the world of baseball, ” Gil said. “He’s doing everything with great pride for his family.”