ACOP Specialized Services

Ivan is a retired MLB player born and raised in Puerto Rico. He was drafted as a 16 year old in the 4th round by the New York Yankees Organization in 1998. As a talented young shortstop Ivan had the opportunity to play in three organizations, the Cincinnati Reds, Seattle Mariners and Anaheim Angels. Baseball is in Ivan’s blood. As a young hot prospect with a large contract, Ivan became the victim of a financial fraud by some of the people that were helping to manage his career. So as a direct result, Ivan travels to educate young baseball players about what it takes to be successful as a professional athlete. He understands that athletic ability is only one important factor in success, Ivan helps young players navigate the pothole and problems of being a professional athlete. A sought after speaker and mentor, Ivan works to bring his experiences to the table to guide young players. He works to develop an individual plan to point them in the right direction and provide quality professional support in many related areas.

Ivan is now a family man and businessman. He serves as Executive Vice President for Player Operations with ACOP, a specialty business that he helped to develop. It uses multiple educational strategies that protect young athletes and their families from those who seek to take advantage of them.

In 2017, as a resident of PR, Ivan, his family and friends were victims of Hurricane Maria, loosing everything. Ivan says, the hurricane destroyed their homes, but not their will. This near-death experience has motivated Ivan to work hard to support those less fortunate, helping to rebuilt PR and making sure that baseball is played by kids with smiles on their faces across the island for years to come.