The Italian American Baseball Foundation will honor longtime baseball executive and scout Ron Rizzi with its 2026 Executive Award at the organization’s 10th Anniversary Gala on December 10 in the Bronx.

For Rizzi, a proud son of Italian immigrants whose baseball journey began within walking distance of Yankee Stadium, the celebration will mark a homecoming and recognition of a career spanning nearly six decades.

Rizzi pitched at Columbia before beginning a 59-year Major League Baseball career. His work in scouting has taken him through the Pittsburgh Pirates, Milwaukee Brewers, Los Angeles Dodgers and Washington Nationals organizations. Along the way, he helped sign future All-Star pitcher Ben Sheets.

He now serves as Senior Advisor of Baseball Operations and Scouting for the San Diego Padres, bringing decades of experience in talent evaluation and player development to the organization.

The Executive Award recognizes Rizzi’s lasting contributions to baseball while celebrating the Italian American roots that remain an important part of his story.

As IABF marks its 10th anniversary, Rizzi will return to the borough where his journey began to join fellow honorees and supporters for a celebration of baseball, heritage and opportunity.