Coaching Staff

Joe Alvarez – Field Manager

Alvarez, a Cuban-American, was drafted in the 3rd round out of high school in New Jersey by the New York Yankees He spent parts of four seasons playing minor league baseball with the New York Yankees, Houston Astros, and Baltimore Orioles. After his playing career he began coaching in the Orioles system before taking his first managerial role in 1984 with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

He went on to win 3 minor league championships with the Dodgers (86’, 87’, 90’) and showcased his aggressive coaching methods by having his team steal 305 bases in 142 games during the 1990 season. Alvarez is no stranger to winter baseball having managed in Columbia from 1981-1983.

“Joe has an extensive background in developing young athletes,” said Executive Director James Gamble. “His ability to communicate and get the best out of his players will make the Diamantes a fun team to watch this season.”

Alvarez would go on to spend some time in Korea and Japan during the 1990’s and continue to teach athletes to utilize their speed as a primary weapon, setting multiple stolen base marks with his clubs.

He returned to managing in 2007 with the Hudson Valley Renegades of the New York Penn League and currently works with the Tampa Bay Rays Gulf Coast League team as an infield and base running coach.

Contact: jalvarez@miamidiamantes.com

Dennis Pujals – Pitching Coach

Denis Pujals will join the staff of the Miami Diamantes after transitioning his role from the front office to the field. He is strongly rooted in the Miami baseball community, having starred for Southwest Miami Senior High School before going on to play for the University of Miami. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in their inaugural season and reached Triple-A before announcing his retirement in 2001.

Contact: dpujals@miamidiamantes.com