Andres Alvares grows in first Triple-A season
Andres Alvares grows in first Triple-A season
Infielder made strides with Indianapolis in 2024
Though he’s an easy player to fly under the radar, Andres Alvarez had a solid 2024 season with Indianapolis.
Overall, Alvarez hit .271 with 20 extra-base hits in 78 Triple-A games. However, what really stood out was his strong September. In 12 contests, Alvarez hit .324 with a 1.036 in the month. It was also the first month that he walked more than he struck out, showcasing some comfort in his first go around at the level.
For Indianapolis hitting coach Eric Munson, Alvarez is a better hitter than just a guy who doesn’t get a lot of attention.
“He has sneaky tools when I look at him,” Munson said. “He’s not big, but he’s strong. He’s got bat speed, really good hands, and is a good defender.”
Facing left-handed pitching is where Alvarez was truly able to shine. In 80 plate appearances against lefties, he hit over 100 points higher with a 1.031 OPS.
Finally, Alvarez was versatile in the field, playing six different positions in Indianapolis. While much of his time was spent between third, second, and shortstop, the Pirates value players who can move around.
For Munson, Alvarez also impressed him off the field.
“He’s a good worker and good teammate,” Munson said. “He’s got a chance to have success because of the tools.”
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Since the drafts inception the pirates had only nine number one picks make it to the majors. The draft started in 1965. During the international signing period I can only recall two players making it to the majors, Polanco and Marte. I doubt no other major league team has had less success. That is a record of total failure regarding scouting and development. Even the players who made it to the majors, the few stars they had (Bonds,Cole) were traded away where they got nothing in return. Sure current ownership is cheap but it does spend all of its bonus money on player acquisition. The problem seems to be terrible scouting and development. How could different owners, GM's, scouts and development staffs been so ineffective? How can I still be a fan while thinking things will change and the pirates will win another world series. Yes I am frustrated and disappointed in this team.
How old is he? Seems like one of those guys who keeps finding a way to put up decent numbers, still looking for our late 20s breaking justin turner