"A good coach can make you a better player.. a great coach can make you a better human."
OUR STORY
Zion Baseball Ministries
Zion Baseball, formerly known as Elevar (Spanish for "elevate") Sport, is a God-fearing, Bible-believing, Christ-centered organization that dedicates itself to using baseball as a vehicle to inspire athletes to aim high and care for their peers, regardless of race, religion, or creed.
"ZION" is historically a physical mountain, but has evolved to an even greater spiritual symbol. A symbol of triumph, fortification, and safe dwelling. It is our heart's desire for everyone we come into contact with to reach Zion, witnessing its characteristics through the beautiful game of baseball and purposeful coaching.
We believe in fiduciary practices, where we will always tell you the truth about what will benefit you the most, to the best of our knowledge, whether it directly benefits us or not. We value trust and a good name above all else when it comes to our vision as an organization.
Just like the mountain range in our logo, there are going to be ups and downs in all aspects of life. When you're up, stay humble. When you're down, stay hopeful.
THE TEAM
Meet Our Experts
Jay Alvarez
Pitching Development Specialist
With more than 13 years of playing experience, including Division 1 and professional levels, along with over 5 years of player development expertise, Jay has established an undeniable track record of success for his athletes. By combining genuine care for his athletes—treating them as if they were his own sons (he has two, Josiah and Mateus)—with holistic training techniques inspired by the traditions of his native islands, Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, which consistently produce the best players in the world. With never having sustained a significant pitching injury throughout his career, it is Jay's mission to address the crisis of young pitchers getting injured more and more often these days. Jay offers a distinctive yet straightforward approach that ensures success for those who seek it.
Willie Hodgins
Catching/Hitting Specialist
Brian “Willie” Hodgins is a proud graduate of Summit Preparatory Charter High School (Class of 2008), having also attended Sequoia High School. He walked on as a redshirt freshman at Sonoma State University, where he spent two years developing as a collegiate athlete. After college, Willie dedicated himself fully to the game of baseball, training under the guidance of respected professionals across the Bay Area and Arizona.
In pursuit of continuous improvement and high-level competition, he played in adult leagues throughout Silicon Valley, Las Vegas, and Arizona. His drive to compete internationally led him to showcase events in San Diego, where a pivotal opportunity emerged. In 2015, he was drafted to play professionally in Japan.
Playing in Japan not only elevated his game but also provided a transformative cultural experience—allowing him to study and embrace the eastern approach to baseball. This chapter expanded both his athletic and personal perspective, reinforcing his commitment to excellence, adaptability, and lifelong learning through sport.
