The Italian American Baseball Foundation has named Alessandro Maestri its 2026 Ambassador Award honoree, recognizing his international baseball career and contributions to Italian baseball’s growth and visibility.

Maestri will be honored at IABF’s 10th Anniversary Gala on December 10.

From Cesena, Italy, to the Chicago Cubs organization and professional baseball in Japan, Maestri built a career that carried Italian baseball across borders. He became the first European-raised pitcher to play Japanese professional baseball and represented Italy in multiple World Baseball Classics.

Wearing the Azzurri jersey gave him the chance to compete on the international stage while helping pave the way for aspiring Italian players.

In 2026, Maestri added another milestone to that legacy as Team Italy’s pitching coach, helping guide the squad to its first-ever World Baseball Classic semifinal. The historic run marked a significant moment for Italian baseball, with Maestri contributing the experience and perspective he developed throughout his playing career.

The Ambassador Award recognizes that lasting connection between personal achievement and service to the game. Through his work as a player and coach, Maestri has helped raise Italian baseball’s profile while demonstrating the opportunities the sport can create around the world.

His recognition will be part of an evening celebrating IABF’s first decade of supporting baseball, softball, education and Italian American heritage.

Tickets, tables and sponsorship opportunities for the December 10 gala are available through IABF’s registration page.