News

Italian American Managers Continue to Shape MLB’s Modern Leadership Era

Major League Baseball’s evolving leadership landscape is highlighted by the hires of Blake Butera and Tony Vitello. The Italian Americans reached management through different paths—player development and college coaching—signaling MLB’s growing emphasis on leadership, culture, relationships, and innovation beyond professional playing experience.

Finding My Future in Saronno: The Softball Experience That Changed Everything

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Rachele Iovine’s softball journey was transformed by training and playing with Saronno Softball in Italy. She practiced alongside elite international and collegiate athletes, competed in 19U games and tournaments, and later helped three Saronno players gain U.S. college exposure by joining her travel team.

Rocco Maniscalco Headlines Italian Americans in 2026 MLB Draft Class

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Italian American prospects Rocco Maniscalco, Andrew Costello, Jason DeCaro, and Dominic Santarelli rank among MLB Pipeline’s Top 100. Their hitting, pitching, defensive ability, power, and international performances have positioned them as notable candidates in the 2026 MLB Draft cycle.

2025 IABF Gala Brings Another Sold-Out Celebration of Italian American Pride and Baseball Tradition

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The 2025 IABF Gala drew more than 425 guests to Marina del Rey to celebrate Italian American heritage, baseball, and the organization’s mission. Honorees included Francisco Cervelli, Phil Cuzzi, Roman Anthony, John Ricco, Alanna Rizzo, Ned Colletti, Billy Martin, Joe Urso, and Sam Militello.

“Andiamo” Mini-Documentary Showcases Italian American Baseball Foundation’s Mission to Grow Baseball in Italy; will debut on CIAO USA TV

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The Italian American Baseball Foundation announced “Andiamo,” a mini-documentary about its mission to expand baseball in Italy, premiering September 6 on CIAO USA TV. Produced by Emmy Award-winning executive trustee Chris R. Vaccaro, the film follows youth clinics held in Castiglione della Pescaia, Parma, and Bologna.

At least 38 Italian Americans Selected in 2025 MLB Draft

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Nearly 40 Italian American players were selected in the 2025 MLB Draft, marking the fifth consecutive year of increased representation. Two were chosen among the top 50, three more in the top 80, and additional players were drafted through the 20th round, strengthening professional baseball’s future talent pool.

Binghamton Rumble Ponies Celebrate Italian Heritage in Grand Fashion as Spicy Meatballs

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Hats off to the Binghamton Rumble Ponies for pulling off one of the most entertaining and unique Italian heritage celebrations on any baseball field in America this year. IABF Trustee Chris Vaccaro was happy to play a part in the alternate identity “Spicy Meatballs” activation and marketing campaign with the Double-A affiliate of the New.

Cervelli-IABF Academy Team Plays in U.S. at Pony League World Series

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The Francisco Cervelli IABF Academy Team represented Italy in the Pony World Series tournament in the United States. The appearance marked a major step for the academy, bringing Italy and America together through the dedication of its players, coaches, and families, while beginning a broader international journey.

Dom Scala Hosts Three Weeks of IABF Sponsored Youth Baseball Camps

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We’ve said it before, and will say it again… Dom Scala does a tremendous job on youth Baseball development. He’s passionate, proud, and has a resume to go along with his kind, compassionate, and innovative baseball instruction. We are proud that he’s on our IABF Board, and we are equally as excited to sponsor his baseball camps.

Italian American Baseball Foundation Leads Impactful Italian Baseball Development Trip

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CASTIGLIONE DELLA PESCAIA – July 2025 – The Italian American Baseball Foundation hosted clinics and events across Italy, drawing more than 100 players and launching its first Coaches Clinic. The trip strengthened baseball development and cultural ties while supporting future projects with FIBS ahead of the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

IABF NEWS