In the world of baseball, few names carry as much weight as Eliezer Alfonzo, affectionately known as “El Matatán.” Alfonzo, a Venezuelan baseball legend, holds the record for the most home runs in the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League (LVBP) with an impressive 138 home runs. His prowess on the field has translated into a successful coaching career, most recently as the new batting coach for the Saraperos de Saltillo in the Mexican Baseball League.

A Career Spanning Continents

Alfonzo’s journey in baseball began in Venezuela, where he played for several teams and earned a reputation as one of the league’s most feared sluggers. His success in Venezuela led to opportunities in the Major League Baseball (MLB), where he played for six seasons with the San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres, Colorado Rockies, and Seattle Mariners. His experience in the MLB has given him a unique perspective that he brings to his coaching career.

Transition to Coaching

After retiring from playing, Alfonzo transitioned into coaching, working with several teams in the LVBP, including the Senators of Caracas and the Lions of Caracas. His coaching tenure with the Lions of Caracas culminated in the 2024-2025 season, where the team finished fifth in collective batting with an average of .287. Despite missing the Round Robin, the Lions led the circuit in doubles (122), hits (338), home runs (73), runs batted in (324), and bases reached (910).

Coach’s work with Lions was good, we had good coach-pelotero communication and that is a point in favor, that generates confidence in them and the results are seen.

Eliezer Alfonzo

Alfonzo’s positive experience with the Lions has prepared him for his new role with the Saraperos de Saltillo, marking his first coaching stint outside of Venezuela. “It is exactly my first experience outside of Venezuela as coach,” Alfonzo said in an exclusive conversation with the Meridian newspaper. “Well, as I have always said, I am a man of challenges, and I go to Mexico with the same desire to work that I have had from the first day that I began to be part of the technical staff of a team here in Venezuela.”

New Challenges and Dreams

For Alfonzo, this move to Mexico is not just a new challenge but also a stepping stone toward his ultimate goal of coaching in the MLB. “Yes, these days we were talking about that, for me it is an objective to fulfill I hope and God give me the opportunity to achieve it,” Alfonzo mentioned. His dream of returning to the MLB as a coach is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game.

Alfonzo’s journey from a Venezuelan baseball legend to a coach in the Mexican League is a story of perseverance and ambition. His experience in the MLB and his successful coaching tenure in Venezuela have prepared him for this new chapter. As he embarks on his first international coaching experience, Alfonzo aims to leave a positive impact and take another step closer to his dream of coaching in the MLB.

Impact and Legacy

Alfonzo’s impact on baseball extends beyond his playing and coaching careers. His record-breaking home run tally in the LVBP and his successful stints with various teams have left a lasting legacy. As he continues to grow as a coach, his influence on the game is sure to expand, inspiring a new generation of players and coaches.

For fans of baseball, particularly those in the U.S., Alfonzo’s story serves as a reminder of the global reach of the sport. His journey from Venezuela to Mexico and his aspirations to coach in the MLB highlight the interconnected nature of baseball and the opportunities it offers to those who are passionate about the game. As Alfonzo continues to make his mark in the Mexican League, his story will undoubtedly inspire many, both on and off the field.