Jose Alvarado, the Philadelphia Phillies’ fiery left-handed pitcher, has made a name for himself in Major League Baseball (MLB) with his powerful arm and fearless spirit.
Known by his nickname “El Pocho,” Alvarado’s journey from a challenging childhood in Maracaibo, Venezuela, to the big leagues is proof of his determination, love for his family, and unwavering support from his parents and siblings.
While much of his professional career is well-documented, the story of Jose Alvarado’s parents and their role in his life is one of quiet strength and sacrifice that deserves to be told.
Born on May 21, 1995, in Maracaibo, Zulia, Venezuela, to his mother, Crelia Lizarzabal, Jose grew up in a city known for its vibrant culture but also plagued by high crime rates, including kidnappings and assaults.
Life in Maracaibo wasn’t easy.
Despite the challenges, Jose’s parents worked hard to provide for him, his sister Mariu, his brother Dario Villarreal, and his sister Mariu Alvarado.
The family remained close-knit, leaning on each other to navigate the tough environment.
At the age of 14, Jose made a difficult decision that would shape his future.
He dropped out of school to help his family manage their farm, taking on responsibilities far beyond his years.
This sacrifice wasn’t just about labour, it was about putting his family first, a value established by his parents.
While little is known publicly about Crelia Lizarzabal and Jose’s father, their influence is clear in the resilience and work ethic Jose displayed from a young age.
Growing up, Jose was drawn to soccer, a popular sport in Venezuela.
But as a left-hander, he discovered he had a natural gift for baseball pitching. That talent would soon change his life—and his family’s.
Discovering Baseball and a Path to the MLB
Jose’s journey to professional baseball began when he caught the attention of scouts at a showcase for Major League Baseball.
The Tampa Bay Rays saw his potential and invited him to pitch at their Venezuelan academy. It was a turning point.
With his family’s support, Jose pursued this opportunity, honing his skills and dreaming of the big leagues.
On May 3, 2017, Jose made his MLB debut with the Rays, a moment of pride for him and his family back in Venezuela.
His powerful fastball and fierce competitiveness quickly made him a standout reliever.
In 2020, he was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies, where he continued to shine as a key part of their bullpen.
Fans in Philadelphia embraced his intensity, and “El Pocho” became a beloved figure at Citizens Bank Park.
A Family Separated By Borders
Jose had a successful career but cherished his family, especially his mother, Crelia, and his three children.
However, strained diplomatic relations between the United States and Venezuela created heartbreaking challenges.
In 2020, the visas for his mother and two of his children expired, leaving Jose unable to hug them for years.
The last time he held his children was that year, a memory that weighed heavily on him as he took the mound.
For over two years, Jose and his family fought to secure new visas, facing a long and frustrating process.
The distance was painful, especially since Jose hadn’t seen his mother since the end of the 2021 season.
Despite the emotional toll, his family remained his rock, supporting him from afar through his highs and lows in baseball.
In December 2023, Jose’s perseverance paid off when his mother Crelia, sister Mariu, and children Dylan and Victoria arrived in the U.S. from Venezuela on December 9.
Their journey included a flight from Valencia to Santo Domingo, then to Miami.
Although Jose hoped to have them in time for the World Series, their arrival was still a joyful reunion he had long awaited.
The reunion was a celebration of years of effort and love. Crelia, who raised Jose with strength, watched proudly as he pitched in the MLB.
Jose Alvarado’s story goes beyond baseball.
It’s about a boy who helped on his family’s farm, a young man who pursued his talent, and a son who sought to reunite with his loved ones.
With the support of his mother, Crelia Lizarzabal, he was encouraged to chase his dreams despite the odds.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Alvarado has two children, a daughter and a son.
- Alvarado, who grew up in Venezuela, enjoys hunting 3-foot iguanas and paca with a slingshot.
