Álvarez was a member of the Washington Senators during spring training in 1963 and was expected to be the team's starting first baseman going into the regular season.

However, Álvarez, who was born in Pinar del Río, Cuba, was forced to stay in his native country by the Cuban government.

He later left the country during unknown circumstances and joined the Pacific Coast League after the Senators returned his contract to the Reds' organization.

In 1962, Álvarez started at the Triple-A level with the San Diego Padres of the Pacific Coast League (PCL).

[7] Álvarez was purchased by the Reds in September of the 1962 season after playing with the San Diego Padres in their minor league organization.

[9] Álvarez made his final major league appearance on September 28, against the Philadelphia Phillies, striking out in one at-bat.

In November 1962, the Cincinnati Reds traded Álvarez to the Washington Senators in exchange for first baseman Harry Bright.

[11] During spring training in 1963, Álvarez was barred from leaving his native Cuba, making it impossible for him to report to the Senators.

[12] The Mexican government was involved in helping Álvarez leave Cuba to return to the United States.

Álvarez split the 1965 season between the Triple-A San Diego Padres and the Double-A Knoxville Smokies.

Álvarez spent his final season in professional baseball in 1973 with the Mexican League Yucatán Leones.