Former big leaguer Mike Pagliarulo has been chosen as the 2022 IABF Achievement Award honoree. 

A longtime supporter and friend of the Italian American Baseball Foundation, Pagliarulo will be honored at the annual IABF Gala in Brooklyn on December 1. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now.

Pagiliarulo spent 11 years in the big leagues between the Yankees, Padres, Twins, Orioles and Rangers and one season playing in Japan. Drafted by the Yankees in the sixth round out of the University of Miami, he eventually won a World Series with the Twins in 1991 as the team’s starting third baseman. Pags later worked as a hitting coach for the Miami Marlins and is currently serving as a special assistant to the GM with the Washington Nationals.

“I am very grateful and humbled for this honor that represents for me the opportunities I’ve had throughout my life,” he said. “The support, love, and passion from my family and friends parallel the same characteristics I gravitate to in the IABF. For Italians, it is a natural way of life to share these unique qualities.” 

Adding some Italian flavor to his statement, he said, “Sono orgoglioso di avere sangue italiano nelle mie vene e faccio del mio meglio per rispettare la mia eredità ogni giorno,” which translates to, “I am proud to have Italian blood in my veins and do my best to respect my heritage every day.”