Italian American Heritage

At least 38 Italian Americans Selected in 2025 MLB Draft

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.

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.

Jac Caglianone Named Ambassador of the Italian American Baseball Foundation

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New York, NY – April 8, 2025—The Italian American Baseball Foundation named Jac Caglianone its official ambassador, recognizing his talent, Italian heritage, and commitment to growing baseball. He will promote youth programs, scholarships, and opportunities connecting Italian American players with the global baseball community.

IABF Hosts Yankees Spring Training Game, Honors Joe Urso at First Tampa Social

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The Italian American Baseball Foundation celebrated its first Tampa Social by honoring University of Tampa baseball coach Joe Urso with an IABF Ambassador Award. The event brought together guests, sponsors, and supporters who share the foundation’s commitment to Italian heritage and baseball.

Remembering Rocky Colavito

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Rocky Colavito, one of the finest Italian American baseball players of the 20th century and a Cleveland Hall of Fame inductee, died at 91 at his Pennsylvania home. He hit 374 home runs, appeared in nine All-Star Games, and hit four homers in one game.

Relive the 2024 IABF Gala

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The Italian American Baseball Foundation held its ninth gala with record attendance and support, honoring leaders including Rob Manfred, Marco Mazzieri, and Riccardo Fraccari. The event recognized achievements across baseball and helped generate record scholarship numbers through the support of the board, sponsors, and attendees.

IABF Inducted into New York State Baseball Hall of Fame

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It was a distinct honor for the organization to be inducted into the New York State Baseball Hall of Fame, recognizing the board’s work to grow baseball in Italy and honor Italian Americans. The induction, shared with notable baseball figures, inspires continued cross-cultural work.

Cincinnati Reds Hire Italian American Terry Francona as Manager

Cincinnati Reds Coaching Italian American Italian American Heritage Player News Professional Baseball Terry Francona

The Cincinnati Reds hired Italian American and former Italian American Baseball Foundation honoree Terry Francona as manager. Francona, 65, returns after leaving the Guardians following the 2023 season, bringing a 1,950-1,672 record across 23 seasons and World Series titles with the Red Sox in 2004 and 2007.

Italian American Baseball Foundation Launches Baseball Academy Partnership with Francisco Cervelli

Castiglione della Pescaia Clinics Francisco Cervelli IABF International Baseball Italian American Heritage Italy Youth Baseball

The Italian American Baseball Foundation and Francisco Cervelli Baseball Academy have joined forces to enhance Simone Piani Stadium in Castiglione della Pescaia and expand youth baseball development in Italy. The facility will host camps, tournaments and cultural programs, with an opening set for September 21.

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