News

IABF and FIBS Sign Memorandum of Understanding Prior to NYC Gala

The Italian American Baseball Foundation and Federation of Italian Baseball and Softball signed a nonbinding memorandum of understanding in Brooklyn on December 1, 2022. Joe Quagliano and Andrea Marcon signed for the organizations, which will deepen cooperation and expand baseball and softball opportunities in Italy and the United States.

Relive the 2022 IABF Gala

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The Italian American Baseball Foundation held its seventh annual gala at Giando on the Water in Brooklyn on December 1, 2022. Honorees included Mike Piazza, Michael Kay, Jim Small, Mike Pagliarulo and Vito Friscia, while Marco Landi received the new IABF Ambassador Award for supporting the foundation and baseball in Italy.

Blake Butera Named Carolina League Manger of the Year

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Blake Butera was named Carolina League Manager of the Year for guiding the Charleston RiverDogs to a franchise-record 88 wins and their second consecutive title. It was his second time receiving the honor. Butera, also a Team Italy assistant, has a 170-82 record in two seasons managing the RiverDogs.

IABF Hot Stove Report

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The offseason includes several notable moves involving Italian American players. Trey Mancini signed a two-year deal with the Cubs after helping Houston win the 2022 World Series, while Nathan Eovaldi joined Texas on a two-year, $34 million contract and Brandon Nimmo remained with the Mets on an eight-year, $162 million deal.

Terry Francona Named American League Manager of the Year

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Terry Francona, manager of the Cleveland Guardians, led baseball’s youngest team to a division title and was named American League Manager of the Year for the third time. Francona called the recognition a huge honor, and the achievement was celebrated as a distinction shared by Italian American managers and coaches.

Blog: IABF in Italy for 2022 Mission Classic

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The 2022 Mission Classic brought Team Italy players and coaches together in Italy ahead of the 2023 World Baseball Classic. Organized by FIBS with support from IABF, the trip combined baseball activities, cultural experiences and heritage-focused events across Rome, Arezzo, Florence, Parma, Modena and Milan.

IABF, BTL Showcase Nets Another Scholarship

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Congratulations to Marco Ragionieri, who has decided to continue his academic and baseball career at Arizona Western College! Marco, who hails from Parma, took part in the IABF-FIBS college showcase with Between the Lines and landed a scholarship from the exposure. Bravo, Marco!

Butera Retires, But was Already Angels Bullpen Coach

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The Kansas City Royals congratulated Drew Butera on a great career insinuating he retired, but he established that in January when he was hired as the bullpen catcher for the Angels. Congrats on a successful 12-year career AND on transitioning to the coaching ranks! Congrats on a great career, Drew! pic.twitter.

Italian American Matt Quatraro Named Manager of Kansas City Royals

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Matt Quatraro is the latest Italian American to manage a club in Major League Baseball. The Rays announced his hiring in October. Most recently a bench coach in Tampa, he signed a three-year contract with an option for 2026. He was also a hitting coach with the Indians from 2014-2017.

Alessandro Volpe Commits to Lindenwood University Following IABF Sponsored College Showcase

BTL College Baseball Flavio Volpe IABF Italian Baseball Player News Team Italy

Alessandro Volpe is the first benefactor of the recent college showcase hosted by Between the Lines and sponsored by the Italian American Baseball Foundation. Congrats, Alessandro! 🇮🇹 ⚾️ 🇺🇸 He has committed to play at Division I Lindenwood University. Good luck on your college career, Alessandro!

IABF NEWS