Behind the Plate with Jose Trevino: A Journey of Talent, Dedication, and Excellence
I recently met with Jose Trevino, MLB Catcher, Platinum Glove awardee, to chat about his connection to Field Sports Training and his enjoyment in hosting his annual Winter World Series in Corpus Christi each December. He also shared some advice for HS Baseball Coaches. Below my interview is a historic look at Jose’s rise to excellence.
Q: What were the outstanding moments from your Winter World Series this past December (2024)?
Jose: The competitions are always my favorite part of the World Series, because some of the teams were hand-picked, and the whole tournament was very competitive. We had such good weather for this event. We are all looking forward to next year’s event.
Q: You gave away a car during the World Series? How was the decision made?
Jose: My partners and I were all involved in finding a worthy family to whom we awarded the car. It warms our hearts to involve the community and give back.
Q: How did you connect with Robert Acuna (inventor of Fielder’s Dome Mat, Pitcher’s Alley and T-Bell, sold exclusively through Field Sports Training)?
Jose: We connected through my brother-in-law. I had this idea for a Catcher’s Mat and shared it with my brother-in-law, and he mentioned Robert, who likes to bring ideas/inventions to life. I’d had this idea for 6 years.
Q: Why did you then partner with Field Sports Training?
Jose: We partnered because of FST’s ambition to get things done and help youth through the FST mission. It blends naturally with what we do with the Winter World Series: help youth develop fundamentals.
Field Sports Training Mission: Our Mission is to empower athletes, coaches and parents to train efficiently and effectively while building a solid foundation of fundamentals.
Q: You have a son. How old is he and does he play ball?
Jose: He is 6 yrs old and plays Outfield and he sometimes catches.
Q: Does he use Fielder’s Dome Mat? His team?
Jose: They do use the mat at practice. He was about 3 years old when the Fielder’s Dome Mat was introduced, and I remember he said “Daddy, that is really neat!” when he saw the domes. His team gets a lot of use out of their mat.
Q: Any Tips for young ball players
Jose: Fundamentals—Catch, Throw, Hit and Run. Do those as many times as possible and get good at them. As kids get older, the number of reps decreases BUT the quality of each rep increases. At ages 12-13-14 the player hits a threshold when they have to determine if their reps are improving or are they merely putting in the reps to meet the quota and/or get tired. You want to see continual improvement from about that age.
Q: Do you have any advice for HS baseball coaches (we both attended the Texas High School Baseball Coaches Convention in Waco, Tx)?
Jose: Your students/players will always look back at their days in HS sports, at both how you were in the locker room and on the field. Coaches: you are a ROLE MODEL.
I had a coach in High School who said, back then, “Some of you are going to come back, say thank you and say ‘you were a role model’ and others of you will come back and apologize for how you behaved during practice and on the field. BE THE FORMER.”
TIPS for COACHES: You have a bigger impact than you think. Each player comes to a fork in the road; your impact is instrumental in the youth’s direction at that point.
Q: How can coaches best prepare their students for an MLB career?
Jose: Encourage your students to chase their dreams, make sure they are really going after it. Make sure grades, attitude, efforts in classroom, weightroom, on the field and at home all match up with what the MLB expects.
I’d tell the coaches to hold the students accountable for who they want to be: coach them to act like it, dress like it, prepare for it (MLB career).
Q: Any new invention ideas?
Jose: My idea is a chest-protector to help catchers, who don’t like blocking, to make catching fun. My thought is to make it electronic to get points for hits to the stomach, etc. It evens up the game in competition. Drawings are in process…
Q: Have you heard about the new Field Sports Training device?
Jose: Yes, can’t wait to see it fully produced and ready to market! It will be a GAME CHANGER!
Note to the reader: Whereas you can find all of Jose’s stats and career history online, following is a summary of his many accomplishments. He is an outstanding, award-winning MLB Catcher who has a big heart for his community, his team and his family. He is a true gentleman.
Thanks to Jose for speaking with me and sharing his views on his annual event and his connection to Field Sports Training.
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A look at Jose's beginnings and career.
When it comes to Major League Baseball, few players embody resilience and dedication quite like José Trevino. From humble beginnings to becoming a standout catcher and defensive specialist, his career has been a masterclass in perseverance and skill development.
Rising from the Ranks
Born on November 28, 1992, in Corpus Christi, Texas, José Trevino’s love for baseball began in his youth. Little did he know that this passion would take him from playing in the collegiate leagues at Oral Roberts University to being one of MLB’s most reliable catchers. During his time in college, Trevino honed his craft, gaining valuable experience playing summer baseball with the Madison Mallards and the Yarmouth-Dennis Red Sox.
Although he wasn’t selected in the draft out of high school, Trevino’s determination led him to the 2014 MLB draft, where he was chosen by the Texas Rangers in the sixth round. This marked the beginning of a professional career that would establish him as one of the league’s top defensive players.
Perfecting His Craft in the Minors
Trevino’s time in the minor leagues was a true test of endurance and commitment. Starting with the Spokane Indians in 2014, Trevino demonstrated versatility, playing positions like catcher, third base, and second base. It wasn’t until 2015, when he transitioned to being a full-time catcher, that his defensive talents truly began to shine.
From High Desert Mavericks to Frisco RoughRiders, Trevino’s minor league career was punctuated by accolades, including two MiLB Rawlings Gold Glove Awards in 2016 and 2017. Awards like these solidified Trevino’s reputation as a defensive powerhouse—traits that would become his hallmark in the majors.
Making His Mark in Texas
José Trevino made his MLB debut with the Texas Rangers in June 2018, immediately showcasing his flair for clutch moments. Who could forget his game-winning walk-off hit just days after his debut? These moments quickly endeared him to fans and teams alike.
Despite injuries interrupting his seasons, Trevino’s resilience continued to shine through. Over the next few years, he proved to be a dependable catcher and a player admired for his work ethic and ability to deliver under pressure.
A Star is Born in New York
The 2022 trade to the New York Yankees marked a pivotal moment in Trevino’s career. While transitioning to a high-profile franchise could overwhelm many, Trevino rose to the occasion. His defensive brilliance flourished, and by the end of the season, Trevino was not just an All-Star but also the recipient of the Fielding Bible Award, Gold Glove Award, and Platinum Glove Award.
Becoming the first American League catcher to earn the Platinum Glove Award only underscored his impact on the game. Trevino had ascended from a respected player to a true standout in the league, earning the trust of pitchers, teammates, and fans alike.
Although the 2023 season came with challenges, including season-ending wrist surgery, Trevino returned in 2024 to continue making his mark. His trade to the Cincinnati Reds signaled a new chapter in his career—one brimming with opportunities to further his legacy.
Beyond the Diamond
While José Trevino’s accomplishments on the field are impressive, his personal story is equally inspiring. Facing the loss of his father during his college years was a pivotal moment, but it also shaped Trevino into the determined athlete he is today. Balancing the demands of MLB with being a father himself, José’s story is one of resilience, character, and commitment.
What We Can Learn from José Trevino
Trevino’s story isn’t just about individual success; it’s a reminder that greatness comes from consistency, determination, and adaptability. His defensive acumen and ability to rise to the occasion have made him a valuable player in every team he’s joined. But more importantly, his perseverance in the face of obstacles is a testament to his unwavering drive to improve.
For athletes, professionals, or anyone striving for success, Trevino’s career is proof that talent combined with hard work and a strong character can propel you to new heights.
A Bright Future in Cincinnati
Now with the Cincinnati Reds, José Trevino continues to showcase his skills, offering experience, leadership, and energy to his new team. Whether it’s framing a perfect pitch or hitting a clutch RBI, Reds fans are undoubtedly excited about what Trevino brings to the table.
José Trevino’s baseball career is a story still being written. One thing is certain, though—behind the plate, on the field, or in life, Trevino is a name synonymous with excellence.