News

Italian American Legend Rocky Colavito Honored with Statue in Cleveland

Rocky Colavito was honored on his 88th birthday with a statue in Cleveland’s Little Italy, where he attended the ceremony. The nine-time All-Star hit 374 home runs, led the American League in homers in 1959 and RBI in 1965, and belongs to the Cleveland Indians Hall of Fame.

IABF Hosts Second Annual Cigar Dinner

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The Italian American Baseball Foundation held its second annual cigar dinner on August 6 at Roslyn Social on Long Island. Former major leaguers Tino Martinez and Mike Pagliarulo mingled with attendees and answered questions about their careers at IABF’s first live event since the pre-pandemic period.

Anthony Rizzo, Joey Gallo Traded to Yankees

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In a notable Italian American moment, the New York Yankees acquired Anthony Rizzo and Joey Gallo at the trade deadline. Both players embraced the Bronx environment, while Gallo said the team’s Italian fan base and an Italian flag at the stadium made him proud of their heritage and baseball success.

IABF Hosts Summer Clinic with Long Island Baseball

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The Italian American Baseball Foundation co-hosted a four-day summer baseball clinic with Long Island Baseball on Long Island in July 2021. Former major leaguers Frank Catalanotto, Mike Pagliarulo and Chris Colabello served as guest instructors, teaching baseball fundamentals to more than 50 campers.

Joseph DiMartino Elected Treasurer of IABF

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The Italian American Baseball Foundation elected Joseph DiMartino as treasurer for a three-year term. DiMartino, Managing Director and Head of Repo Trading at MUFG Securities Americas, brings finance and community experience to the role and said he would support IABF’s mission to develop youth in the United States and abroad.

Italian American Baseball Foundation Launches College Scholarship Program

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The Italian American Baseball Foundation launched its first college scholarship program for eligible student-athletes who demonstrate Italian American heritage and financial need. Applicants must meet membership, heritage, GPA, and college baseball or softball requirements, submit supporting documents, and complete an interview.

IABF Ambassador Frank Catalanotto Named Hofstra Baseball Head Coach

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Frank Catalanotto was named Hofstra University’s 15th head baseball coach after a 14-year Major League Baseball career and two seasons leading New York Tech. He guided the Bears to their first Division II College World Series appearance, a school-record 37 wins, and a national ranking.

At least 18 Italian Americans Taken in 2021 MLB Draft

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More than 15 Italian Americans were selected in the MLB Draft, with Frank Mozzicato leading the group as the Royals’ seventh overall pick. Other selections included Anthony Solometo by the Pirates, Shane Panzini by the Royals, and players drafted by the Dodgers, Cardinals, Astros, Giants, Angels, Brewers, Cubs, Tigers, Indians, Athletics, and Reds.

Trey Mancini Wows Audience in MLB HR Derby

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Trey Mancini finished second to Pete Alonso in the MLB Home Run Derby after hitting 59 total home runs. The 2021 IABF Tommy LaSorda Award winner, Mancini returned to baseball 16 months after battling cancer and inspired fans and fellow cancer patients with his comeback.

Italian Americans Make 2021 MLB All-Star Roster as Players, Coaches, Officials

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Italian Americans featured prominently in the 2021 MLB All-Star Game in Denver, including players Joey Gallo, Nathan Eovaldi, J.T. Realmuto, Mike Zunino and Gerrit Cole. Terry Francona and other coaches, umpire Chris Guccione, reporter Tom Verducci and Dodgers bullpen catcher Stephen Ciladi also participated.

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