Author: Roberto Angotti

Introducing Team Italy in the 2025 European Baseball Championship

Roberto Angotti1 Comment
Team Italy manager Francisco Cervelli

Team Italy manager Francisco Cervelli is no stranger to Italian baseball as he represented the Azzurri during the 2009 and 2017 World Baseball Classics. “It is a great honor for me to be appointed the manager of the Italian National Baseball Team. Since 2017, when I played my last World Baseball Classic, I have carried a mission in my heart: to help elevate Italy as a reference point for elite baseball in Europe. With humility and gratitude, I want to thank Federazione Italiana Baseball Softball for giving me this incredible opportunity. Representing Italy is not just a responsibility but a dream come true. Wearing this iconic uniform again fills me with pride, and I am ready to work tirelessly to lead this team and inspire future generations of Italian players.”

Miles Mastrobuoni and Brett Sullivan at the 2023 World Baseball Classic

Before introducing the Italian players that are likely to compete for the Azzurri, let’s review How Team Italy can reach the 2025 European Baseball Championship finals. Although the Italians are considered outsiders, Team Italy would like nothing more than to win the Euro Baseball throne in Rotterdam, where the squad last won the championship title in 2012.

Mattia Aldegheri (Pitcher)

Older brother to Los Angeles Angels pitcher Samuel Aldegheri. Mattia Aldegheri has been a consistent starter for Team Italy internationally. During Haarlem Baseball Week on July 16, 2024 against Japan, the right-handed hurler pitched five innings and held the eventual champion of the tourney to three runs on five hits with two strikeouts and two walks. He threw a scoreless inning with two strikeouts against the Team Italy U23 squad on July 16, 2025 and started against the Baseball Globetrotters during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 12th (4 IP, H, 2 ER, 5 K, 4 BB).

Maurizio Andretta (Pitcher)

Maurizio Andretta appeared in two contests at Haarlem Baseball Week 2022. After pitching a hitless inning with one strikeout against host Kingdom of the Netherlands on July 8th, he took the loss against undefeated Japan on July 12th (1.1 IP, 2 H, 4 R, K, BB). He was the stopper out the Azzurri bullpen at Haarlem Baseball Week 2024 when he kept opponents off the board in his two appearances. Against silver medal winner USA on July 14th, the right-handed pitcher threw 1.1 innings of relief and surrendered one hit. He also provided long relief in his four scoreless innings against Chinese Taipei on July 17th when giving up just four hits with one strikeout and two walks. At the 2023 European Baseball Championship, Maurizio Andretta kept Sweden off the board on September 25th (2.1 IP, 6 K, BB) and did it again when picking up the win against Switzerland on September 29th (2.2 IP, 5 K, BB). He pitched two innings of relief against the Baseball Globetrotters during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 12th and gave up just one hit with three strikeouts.

Marco Artitzu (Pitcher)

Up-and-coming pitcher Marco Artitzu blanked the Kingdom of the Netherlands at Haarlem Baseball Week 2024 on July 13th (2 IP, 1 H, 1 K), but was ambushed by Japan three days later (2.2 IP, 5 H, 5 R, 2 BB). He most recently made three appearances against Germany and the Kingdom of the Netherlands at the 2025 U23 European Baseball Championship (0-1, 4 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, 5 K, 2 BB). Against the Baseball Globetrotters during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 12th, the promising reliever threw one hitless inning with one strikeout and one walk. He returned two days later against the Czech Republic to pitch two innings of relief and allowed one run with one strikeout and two walks.

Alex Bassani (Pitcher)

Alex Bassani is a Team Italy pitching veteran who never gives up. He made his Azzurri pitching debut in 2017 and has been called upon in every international competition ever since. He earned the save in the 2021 European Baseball Championship bronze medal game against Spain and was the winning pitcher against Curacao at Haarlem Baseball Week 2022. The Bologna native was worth his weight in gold during Haarlem Baseball Week 2024 when allowing no hits against both the Kingdom of the Netherlands on July 13th (2 IP, 2 K) and Spain on July 15th (IP, K). However, the scouting report got out to his opponents a few days later when Chinese Taipei tagged him for three runs on four hits on July 17th. Most recently, Alex Bassani pitched two flawless innings of relief with two strikeouts against the Czech Republic during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 14th.

Matteo Bocchi (Pitcher)

The 29-year-old Parma native competed in the 2008 Little League World Series while on the first-ever Italian squad (Emilia Little League) to play in the international youth competition and a decade later on March 20, 2018 became the first Italian-born student-athlete to play for the College World Series-bound University of Texas Longhorns. Right-handed pitcher Matteo Bocchi signed with the Chicago Cubs on June 13, 2019 and reached as high as AAA playing for the Iowa Cubs. During his two seasons in the minors, he compiled a 4-3 record with one save in 37 appearances (3.90 ERA. 94.2 IP, 109 K). He has since been the most consistent Team Italy starter. During Haarlem Baseball Week 2024, he took the loss against the Kingdom of the Netherlands on July 13th (4 IP, ER, 4 H, 6 K, 2 BB) and held his own against Chinese Taipei on July 17th (3 IP, ER, 2 H, 3 K, BB).

Alessandro Ciarla (Pitcher)

After signing with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2016, Anzio-born Alessandro Ciarla returned to Italy to continue his pitching career. In his eight seasons to date, he has thrown 186.2 innings and amassed 244 strikeouts with an overall 3.33 ERA. The veteran pitcher held the Baseball Globetrotters scoreless (2 IP, H, 4 K, BB) during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 12th.

Luca Di Raffaele (Pitcher)

At Haarlem Baseball Week 2024, Luca Di Raffaele made three appearances. On July 13th against the Kingdom of the Netherlands, he pitched one inning and allowed one run on two hits. He faced Spain twice and fared better on the first encounter on July 15th when throwing 1.1 scoreless innings and later on July 18th gave up three runs on three hits with two strikeouts and two walks. During Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 14th against the Czech Republic, Luca Di Raffaele also made a brief relief appearance (0.1 IP, H, 2 R, BB).

Juan Carlos Infante Jr. (Pitcher)

Up-and-coming hurler and son of Azzurri legend Juan Carlos Infante, pitcher Juan Carlos Infante Jr. made two appearances in the recent 2025 U23 European Baseball Championship. He earned the win against Austria (7 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 7 K, BB) on August 7th before facing the Kingdom of the Netherlands in relief two days later (.1 IP, 2 H, R). During his four-year career playing for Modena, he has pitched 172.1 innings and produced 177 strikeouts with an overall 3.08 ERA. Against the Czech Republic during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 13th, the promising pitcher threw one hitless inning.

Angelo Palumbo (Pitcher)

Signed by the Baltimore Orioles in December 2012, Angelo Palumbo pitched for four seasons in the Dominican Summer League (5-19, 3.55 ERA) before enjoying a successful career in Venezuela and Italy. He made his Azzurri pitching debut in the 2018 Super 6 Baseball Tournament when he picking up his first victory over Belgium on September 19, 2018 (5 .1 IP, 3 H, R, 4 K) and returned the following year to beat the Belgians again on September 11, 2019 (5 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 6 K) in the European Baseball Championship. The six-foot-three right-handed pitcher returned for this third Team Italy win against the Czech Republic on September 19, 2019 (6 IP, 7 H, R, 2 K). He later appeared out of the bullpen against the Kingdom of the Netherlands on September 21, 2019 and got both Dutch hitters he faced out easily. During Haarlem Baseball Week 2022, Angelo Palumbo made appearances against Curacao (4 IP, H, 0 ER, 4 K, 3 BB) and Cuba (IP, 1 H). Most recently, he pitched one scoreless inning against the Team Italy U23 squad on July 16, 2025 before taking the loss against the Czech Republic during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 14th (0.0 IP, 2 H, 2 R).

Gabriele Quattrini (Pitcher)

Impressive at Haarlem Baseball Week 2024, pitcher Gabriele Quattrini earned the win over Spain on July 15th (6.2 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 4 K, 3 BB). Two years prior at Haarlem Baseball Week in 2022, he picked up another win against Cuba on July 13th (6 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 3 K, 2 BB). The Team Italy workhorse seeks redemption after two lackluster 2023 European Baseball Championship appearances against Sweden (3.1 IP, 5 H, 4 R, 2 K, BB) and Switzerland (3.1 IP, 7 H, 2 R, 7 K). Gabriele Quattrini limited the Czech Republic to one run on four hits with five strikeouts and one walk in his five-inning start during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 13th.

Luis Santana (Pitcher)

Working out of the Parma Clima bullpen during the past two seasons, pitcher Luis Santana has gained his share of Italian baseball fans because of his talent (2-0, 5.01 ERA, 23.1 IP, 29 K in 2024 and 4-1, 4.79 ERA, 47 IP, 56 K in 2025). He has spent nine seasons to date in Italy (27-20, 4.50 ERA 434 IP, 411 K). During Italian Baseball Week against the Czech Republic on September 14th, reliever Luis Santana made a less-than-desirable appearance (0.0 IP, H, 2 ER, 2 BB).

Claudio Scotti (Pitcher)

A product of the FIBS Academy, Claudio Scotti signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates on April 1, 2016. After two years in the Pirates organization, he returned to pitch for Team Italy during Haarlem Baseball Week and the Super 6 in 2018. The hard-throwing pitcher enjoyed success when signing with UnipolSai Bologna and leading the team to two consecutive Italian championship titles in 2019 and 2020 as well as winning the European Champions Cup in 2019. After pitching seven scoreless innings with 16 strikeouts for the Azzurri in the 2021 U23 European Baseball Championship in Verona and after two starts at the 2021 Senior Elite European Baseball Championship in Turin, he signed with the New York Mets on October 2, 2021. Claudio Scotti spent two seasons in the minor leagues before returning to Italy. He made two appearances at the 2023 European Baseball Championship (IP, H, R, 2 K, 2 BB). The right-handed hurler has since pitched two solid regular seasons for Parma Clima (2-1, 4.11 ERA, 30.2 IP, 42 K in 2024 and 5-1, 2.14 ERA, 46.1 IP 55 K in 2025).

Mattia Sireus (Pitcher)

Mattia Sireus made two relief appearances at the 2023 European Baseball Championship against Great Britain on September 26th (1.1 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 3 K, 2 BB) and Croatia on September 30th (3 IP, 2 H, R, 3 K, 2 BB). He took the loss in his start against USA at Haarlem Baseball Week 2024 on July 14th (4.2 IP, 6 H, 4 R, 5 K, 2 BB). The young right-handed pitcher made his two relief appearances at the recent 2025 U23 European Baseball Championship. In 2.2. innings against the Kingdom of the Netherlands on August 8th, he surrendered four runs on five hits with one strikeout and one walk; however, the promising hurler came back strong two days later against the Czech Republic and threw 2.2 scoreless innings with three strikeouts. Making a start during Italian Baseball Week 2025 against the Czechs on September 14th, Mattia Sireus threw 3.2 innings and allowed one run on two hits with three strikeouts and two walks.

Miguel Fabrizio (Catcher/1B)

Signed by the Chicago Cubs in 2017, Miguel Fabrizio played in 181 games and spent five seasons in the minors (546 AB, 148 H, 74 R, 9 HR, 94 RBI, 10 SB .271 BA) before launching his career in Italy. His two seasons at Hotsand Macerata have been successful (195 AB, 60 H, 38 R, 5 HR, 41 RBI, .308 BA). The Team Italy cleanup hitter singled against the Baseball Globetrotters during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 12th. The reliable catcher returned two days later against the Czech Republic and hit an RBI double and later scored.

Samuele Gamberini (Catcher/1B)

A bright spot during Haarlem Baseball Week 2024, slugger Samuele Gamberini raked at the plate (7-for-23, 2B, 2 HR, 6 RBI, .304 BA, .913 OPS) and was named Best Hitter of the tournament. At the recent 2025 U23 European Baseball Championship, the Azzurri cleanup hitter appeared in all five games (5-for-13, 2B, RBI, 6 BB, .385 BA).

Giaconino Lasaracina (Catcher/3B)

Giaconino Lasaracina split time behind the plate and in right field during the 2025 U23 European Baseball Championship. The three-hole hitter went 4-for-16 with two doubles, two walks and two RBI. During his past four seasons playing in Italy for Collecchio and Settimo, he has produced massive numbers (.366 BA, .592 SLG, .440 OBP, 1.032 OPS). Against the Czech Republic during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 13th, the Team Italy DH went 3-for-4 with one double, three RBI and one run scored. He returned the following day against the Czechs and went 2-for-5 with one double, one RBI and one runs scored.

Alberto Mineo (Catcher)

Under the guidance of the late and great FIBS Hall of Famer Bill Holmberg, catcher Alberto Mineo signed with the Chicago Cubs at age 16 on November 20, 2010. He remained in the Cubs organization for seven years before being claimed on the waiver wire by the Toronto Blue Jays on December 14, 2017. He reached as high as Triple-A ball in 2018. Mineo spent 2019 in Double-A before being signing again with the Chicago Cubs on February 12, 2020 and later returning to Italy, where he won two straight European Cups in Parma (2021-22). Having made his national senior team debut at the 2015 Premier 12 and subsequently represented Team Italy in all other major international competitions, he is one of the finest Italian-born and developed players in recent history. During the 2023 European Baseball Championship, he went 6-for-17 (.353 BA) with three doubles, four walks and three RBI. Alberto Mineo led Parma Clima to the 2024 Italian Baseball Series Championship title and Leones de León to the 2025 Nicaraguan Professional Baseball League Championship crown. During Italian Baseball Week 2025 against the Czech Republic on September 14th, he went 1-for-3 with an RBI.

Lorenzo Morresi (Catcher/Infielder)

FIBS Academy graduate Lorenzo Morresi was a solid contributor for Team Italy at the 2023 U23 European Baseball Championship (4-for 11, .364 BA, 2B, HR, 5 BB, 6 RBI) Later serving as designated hitter, catcher and third baseman during Haarlem Baseball Week 2024, Lorenzo Morresi had a big game against USA on July 24th when the utilityman went two-for-three with two runs scored and one walk. the run producer also crossed the plate in subsequent games against Spain, Japan and Chinese Taipei. Back home in Italy playing for Hotsand Macerata in 2025, he hit .368 with six doubles, one triple, three homers, nine walks and 13 runs scored. The versatile player served as DH and shortstop against the Baseball Globetrotters during Italian Baseball Week 2024 on September 12th, when he went 3-for-4 (HR, 2 RBI). On the following day against the Czech Republic, the second baseman continued his hot-hitting ways going 2-for-5 with two RBI and two runs scored.

Jesus Carrera (1B)

At Haarlem Week 2024, Jesus Carerra put the ball in play with just three strikeouts in 25 at-bats. He collected seven hits (.280 BA) with two walks and five RBI. During his six seasons in Italy playing for the likes of Hotsand Macerata, he put together strong offensive numbers (699 AB, 263 hits, 61 doubles, six triples, 13 homers, 109 walks, 151 RBI, .376 BA). The Team Italy first baseman hit an RBI single against the Baseball Globetrotters during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 12th.

Ricardo Paolini (2B)

During the 2023 European Baseball Championship, Ricardo Paolini played well defensively at second base and jump-started the Azzurri offense at the top of the lineup (6-for-23, one double, six walks, three RBI. 261 BA). Between his two appearances at Haarlem Baseball Week (2022 and 2024), he has a combined .273 BA (12-for-44) with one double, three walks and two RBI. The Team Italy second baseman collected two hits against the Baseball Globetrotters during Italian Baseball Week on September 12th. He returned two days later against the Czech Republic and went 1-for-2 with one walk, one RBI, one run scored and one stolen base.

Gabriele Angioi (SS/2B)

Versatile infielder Gabriele Angioi singled against Japan during Haarlem Baseball Week 2024 on July 16th and walked, singled and scored one run two days later against Spain. He played for Italian powerhouse Parma Clima in 2024 (.328 BA) and in 2025 (.307 BA). The Team Italy leadoff hitter went 2-for-3 against the Baseball Globetrotters during Italian Baseball Week on September 12th. A day later In game one against the Czech Republic, he went a perfect 4-for-4 with one walk, one RBI and one run scored. Gabriele Angioi returned to the top of the Azzurri lineup in game two against the Czechs, picked up another hit and later scored.

Renzo Martini (3B)

Signed by the New York Yankees in 2011, Renzo Martini spent five years in the minor leagues before playing in his native Venezuela. During his six-season career playing in Italy’s Serie A, corner infielder Renzo Martini has compiled an impressive .368 batting average with 63 doubles, 19 home runs, 167 RBI and 85 walks. He singled, doubled and scored against the Baseball Globetrotters during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 12th. Then the Italian slugger went 3-for-4 (home run, five RBI and two runs scored) on the following day against the Czech Republic. He once again raked at the plate in game two against the Czechs on September 14th, when going 2-for-3 with one triple, one RBI and one run scored.

Nathanael Batista (OF)

In the 2023 European Baseball Championship, Nathanael Batista went 8-for-22 (.364 BA) with seven walks, six RBI and four runs scored. At Haarlem Baseball Week 2024, the agile outfielder hit ..357 with one double, one homer, two walks and three RBI. He recently led San Marino to the 2025 Italian Baseball Series Championship title after putting together good regular season stats (.283 BA, nine doubles, one triple, five home runs, 26 walks and 23 RBI). During Italian Baseball Week 2025 against the Czech Republic on September 13th, the left fielder went 2-for-5 with one double, two RBI and two runs scored. He came back the following day against the Czechs and collected another hit, RBI and walk.

Jhorjan Guevara (OF)

SIgned by the Philadelphia Phillies in 2019, Jhorjan Guevara played two seasons in the minor leagues (.221 BA, nine doubles, HR, 23 BB, 14 SB) before launching an eye-popping career in Italy for Modena (2024: .365 BA, nine doubles, two triples, three home runs, 10 walks, 25 RBI, 12 SB; 2025: .476 BA, 10 doubles, three triples, five home runs, 14 walks, 29 RBI, nine SB). He singled and walked against the Baseball Globetrotters during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 12th. On the following day against the Czech Republic, the center fielder went 4-for-4 with two runs scored. The Team Italy power hitter had another monster day against the Czechs on September 14th, when going 2-for-3 with one home run, one walk, two runs scored and one stolen base.

Noel González (Utility)

Representing Team Italy in the 2021 European Baseball Championship, leadoff hitter Noel González was an integral part of the Azzurri bronze-medal squad. During his five-year career playing for Parma Clima, he has put together incredible numbers (.370 BA, 56 doubles, seven triples, seven home runs, 99 BB, 128 RBI, 12 SB). Against the Czech Republic during Italian Baseball Week 2025 on September 13th, the Cuban native went 2-for-4 with one RBI and two runs scored. He returned the following day against the Czechs and registered one hit, one walk, one RBI, one run scored and one stolen base.

Filippo Agretti (Utility)

Playing primarily third base with one start in right field for Team Italy at Haarlem Baseball Week 2024, Filippo Agretti was a bright spot in the Azzurri lineup (8-for-24, .348 BA, double, walk, four RBI). He had a monster 2025 season for Bologna (.354 BA, 11 doubles, three triples, 37 walks, 15 RBI, 6 SB). Against the Baseball Globetrotters during Italian Baseball Week on September 12th, the dependable utility man played left field, singled and later scored. He came back two days later against the Czechs and picked up an RBI.

Returning to Rotterdam, where Team Italy last won the 2012 European Baseball Championship title, is a dream come true for the Azzurri as the Italians seek redemption to recapture the gold magic again thirteen years later.

Team Italy celebrates winning the 2012 European Baseball Championship

Assuming victories in the games listed below, Team Italy will once again be at the throne of Euro baseball.

Wednesday, September 24, 2025 1:30 pm (ET) Team Italy vs. Group B fourth-place finisher (Kingdom of the Netherlands, Great Britain, France and Israel)

Thursday, September 25, 2025 1:30 pm (ET) Team Italy vs. Group A leader (Spain, Germany, Czech Republic and Sweden)

Friday, September 26, 2025 1:30 pm (ET) Team Italy vs. Semifinalist or Group A runner-up (Spain, Germany, Czech Republic and Sweden)

Saturday, September 27, 2025 1:30 pm (ET) Team Italy vs. Finalist or Group B leader or runner-up (Kingdom of the Netherlands, Great Britain, France and Israel).

Watch all the action live by clicking HERE or get the latest scores by clicking HERE. Forza #Italia!

How Team Italy can reach the 2025 European Baseball Championship finals

Roberto Angotti3 Comments
2023 WBC stars Nicky Lopez, Vinnie Pasquantino, Miles Mastrobuoni and Brett Sullivan

Despite a 4-2 record during the 2023 Senior Elite European Baseball Championship in the Czech Republic, Team Italy placed ninth due to Team Quality Balance. After suffering an 8-3 upset by Sweden (8th place) and a heartbreaking 11-10 loss to eventual silver medalist Great Britain early in the tournament, the Azzurri did not reach the quarterfinals. As a result, the Italians were relegated to the 9-12 placement round and did not automatically qualify for the 2025 European Baseball Championship in the Netherlands.

Now Team Italy must earn the right to compete against the top 2023 Euro finishers (Groups A and B) in Rotterdam from September 24-27, 2025 by hosting and winning one of two qualifiers (Group C) in Novara from September 20-22, 2025. The Italians begin their journey in Novara with the aim of returning to Rotterdam, where the Azzurri last won the 2012 European Baseball Championship title and aspire to recapture the gold magic again thirteen years later.

The top eight finishers from the 2023 Senior Elite European Baseball Championship are broken up into two groups, Groups A and B, in a round-robin tourney at Neptunus Familiestadion in Rotterdam. Group A features reigning champion Spain along with Germany, Czech Republic and Sweden, while host 2023 bonze medalist Kingdom of the Netherlands competes in Group B with Great Britain, France and Israel.

Eight countries competing in the 2025 Senior Elite European Baseball Championship Qualifiers are included in Groups C and D at different locations. Group C takes place in Novara, where Team Italy faces Switzerland, Greece and Lithuania. Belgium hosts Group D in Borgerhoutm and plays against Croatia, Austria and Hungary.

The top two teams from Groups C and D advance to Rotterdam and play the third and fourth-place finishers from Groups A and B. Then the winners of the aforementioned clashes together with the first two teams from Groups A and B compete in an elimination round to determine the medal winners.

Below is the road map for Team Italy manager Francisco Cervelli and technical coaching coordinator Gibo Gerali to lead the Azzurri squad to the 2025 Senior Elite European Baseball Championship final:

Saturday, September 20, 2025 9:30 am (ET) Switzerland vs. Team Italy in Novara

Sunday, September 21, 2025 9:30 am (ET) Team Italy vs. Lithuania in Novara

Monday, September 22, 2025 9:30 am (ET) Greece vs. Team Italy in Novara

Assuming Team Italy wins all three games listed above in Novara and continues to win the games below in Rotterdam then the road map looks like this:

Tuesday, September 23, 2025 Travel Day to Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Wednesday, September 24, 2025 1:30 pm (ET) Team Italy vs. Group B fourth-place finisher (Kingdom of the Netherlands, Great Britain, France and Israel)

Thursday, September 25, 2025 1:30 pm (ET) Team Italy vs. Group A leader (Spain, Germany, Czech Republic and Sweden)

Friday, September 26, 2025 1:30 pm (ET) Team Italy vs. Semifinalist or Group A runner-up (Spain, Germany, Czech Republic and Sweden)

Saturday, September 27, 2025 1:30 pm (ET) Team Italy vs. Finalist or Group B leader or runner-up (Kingdom of the Netherlands, Great Britain, France and Israel)

Team Italy hopes to recapture the European Baseball Championship throne after a lengthy 13-year drought. The Italians have won the Euro title ten times, while Kingdom of the Netherlands has dominated the tournament with 24 first-place finishes. The last time the two powerhouses met was at the Euro Championship final in 2019, when the Dutch prevailed in a 5-1 Euro Gold Medal victory in Bonn, Germany. It has been a long four years since 2021 European Baseball Championship host Team Italy earned a medal after a 2-0 shutout over Spain in the Bronze Medal Game in Torino.

Team Italy vs. Kingdom of the Netherlands

Nothing would be more enjoyable than a rematch between Team Italy and Kingdom of the Netherlands in the 2025 European Baseball Championship final in Rotterdam, where the Italians last won the Euros in 2012. Purchase your tickets for EuroBaseball 2025 by clicking HERE. If you cannot make it in person, watch all the action live by clicking HERE. Forza #Italia!

Tollo, Italy and Fullerton: Together in the name of Tommy Lasorda

Roberto Angotti1 Comment

View Post

After the passing of Tommy Lasorda in January 7, 2021, Orange County native and cultural historian Roberto Angotti proposed to Fullerton Mayor Bruce Whitaker that the city pay tribute to the Lasorda family and the late and great Dodger legend by adopting Tollo as its Sister City and honoring Tommy Lasorda every year on his birthday. The Fullerton City Council unanimously approved the motion. Angotti then traveled to Italy to get a signed letter of intent from Tollo Mayor Angelo Radica.  

Tollo, Italy and Fullerton, California officially became Sister Cities in honor of Tommy Lasorda on September 22, 2021. Tollo is a charming town in the Abruzzo region of Italy, about 16 miles from the coast near Pescara and surrounded by beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea to the west and the Maiella Mountains to the east. Although Tollo is world-renowned for its food and wine traditions, the small town of 4,000 inhabitants is also known for its connection to the late and great global baseball ambassador Tommy Lasorda, who lived in Fullerton, California for nearly sixty years and whose parents hailed from this quaint Italian mountain village.

Fullerton paid tribute to the Lasorda family on September 22, 2021 when it celebrated its inaugural Tommy Lasorda Day. Attendees included Mike Scioscia, Eric Karros, Mickey Hatcher, Lenny Randle, Jim Hill, Vince Ferragamo, Fred Dryer, Laura Lasorda, Ann Meyer Drysdale, Drew Drysdale and Joe Buscaino.  

Former Dodger catcher and two-time MLB All-Star Mike Scioscia, who played for Lasorda on two World Series winning teams before leading the Angels as manager to a 2002 World Series championship title, represented the Italian American Baseball Foundation at Tommy Lasorda Day.

Scioscia said: “Tommy was the most competitive person I ever met in my life. I think that anyone who played for him felt the same way, but that is what it took for us to become world champions and he knew it and he instilled it in all of us. He made us better baseball players, but most important, made us better men.”

Tollo Mayor Angelo Radica and the Tollo City Council assembled in the Municipal Council Chambers in Tollo (Chieti) on October 25, 2021 to approve and sign the Sister City relationship with Fullerton, California in honor of Tommy Lasorda and his Tollo-born parents Sabatino and Carmella Lasorda.

The online video conference call included Fullerton Mayor Bruce Whitaker, the Fullerton City Council, Fullerton Sister City Association President Michael Oates and Sister City International Ambassador Roberto Angotti. In addition to members of community attending the town hall meeting, Tollo Baseball and Softball Coordinator Graziano Primavera and players from his teams were also in attendance. Tollo broke ground in building a youth baseball and softball field in Italy named in honor of Tommy Lasorda and celebrated the opening of the diamond in May 2022.

It was a weekend of smiles, emotions and memories in early May 2022 in Tollo, Italy for Laura Lasorda, daughter of Tommy and Jo Lasorda. Accompanied with an entourage of friends and family, Laura Lasorda visited Tollo tracing the ancestral roots of her grandfather Sabatino Lasorda, who left this small town known for its fine Abruzzese cuisine and wine in the province of Chieti to look for a better life in the United States.

WIth Laura Lasorda and Sister City ambassador Roberto Angotti serving as witnesses inside Tollo City Hall, Tollo Mayor Angelo Radica signed the official Sister City agreement with Fullerton, California on Saturday morning, May 7, 2022. Fullerton celebrated its inaugural “Tommy Lasorda Day” on September 22, 2021, when Fullerton Mayor Bruce Whitaker officially signed the Sister City covenant.

Tollo Mayor Angelo Radica and former Fullerton Mayor Bruce Whitaker met at Tollo City Hall

Despite the afternoon rain, Tollo Mayor Angelo Radica and Laura Lasorda cut the ceremonial ribbon to the new baseball and softball field named after Tommy Lasorda, whose eternal smile stands out in the large mural depicting him created by artist Antonello ‘Macs’ Piccinino. The unsung hero in preparing the diamond for this special occasion was Alessandro Flisi of Flisi Field, who spent countless hours away from his family in Parma during the Easter holiday to make sure Tommy Lasorda field was completed in time for the unveiling.

Poste Italiane got the party started when revealing a specially-designed one-day postage stamp seal commemorating Tommy Lasorda Day at the diamond before Lasorda t-shirts, hats and cake were distributed to all those in attendance. Celebrants were treated to a series of emotionally-driven speeches during the festivities.

Mural designed by Italian artist Antonello ‘Macs’ Piccinino at Tommy Lasorda Field in Tollo

Laura Lasorda said, “The first feeling I feel, being here with you is that of gratitude for having given me and my family, the one who is here with me and the one who looks at us from heaven, this beautiful moment. Returning to the homeland of my grandparents is a bit like closing the circle and makes me understand how it is from here that the values ​​that my father passed on to us and that his parents passed on to him originate. I am sure that from today, in my father’s name, the people who will be able to make an important contribution to the growth of baseball, not only here, but in Italy, have come together.”

Tollo Mayor Angelo Radica said, “Today is a historic day for Tollo. I would say the second most important ever after the one in which Tommy Lasorda visited us. This field is our commitment, not only by the Tollo City Administration, but it is also our commitment to Tollo Baseball and Softball. The promise and commitment we make today is to make it live through the activity of many boys and girls. Finally, the dream of those who started their passion for baseball over 40 years ago on the occasion of Tommy Lasorda’s visit has come true and young people can play and grow on a field dedicated to them. I want to thank all those who contributed to the realization of the project. I would like to mention the City Council who understood and supported it, the Councilor of the Abruzzo Region Silvio Paolucci, who gave us an important hand in overcoming some difficult moments, and Tollo Baseball and Softball President Ezio Della Nebbia and coach Graziano Primavera, both of whom worked very hard to make our dream came true.”

On October 10, 2024 a large delegation from Fullerton, led by former Mayor Bruce Whitaker, Laura Lasorda, Roberto Angotti, filmmaker and producer/director of Italian American Baseball Family as well as official ambassador and promoter of the Sister City agreement between the two cities, and members of the Fullerton Sister City Association  traveled to Italy where they were guests of Tollo Mayor Angelo Radica to celebrate the Sister City agreement and bridge the cultural connection across the Atlantic.

Tollo Mayor Angelo Radica said, “I am very happy to welcome the Fullerton delegation. Tommy Lasorda is the most important and famous citizen of Tollo. The story of Tommy Lasorda represents the ‘American dream’. Lasorda never forgot Tollo. When he came to Tollo, in 1979, a square packed with people welcomed him. One day, secretly, he decided to come by car to better visit Tollo, a town he loved very much.”

Mayor Radica continued, “When it was possible to create the connection between Tollo and Fullerton, we immediately said ‘yes’. With Bruce Whitaker, we signed the Sister City agreement between Tollo and Fullerton online. Today, we are dedicating a small space where there will be all the most beautiful and important objects related to Tommy Lasorda and donated to us by Laura Lasorda. Thank you for being here and thank you Federation Italiana Baseball Softball, for supporting this initiative from the start. Today, for Tollo and Fullerton, it is not a point of arrival but a point of departure.”

“It is a great pleasure to be here with you”, said Bruce Whitaker, Fullerton Mayor city at the time of the signing of the Sister City relationship. “Almost four years ago, in a conference call on zoom, we united our cities through the signing of a Sister City agreement. We are proud to be united together with your beautiful municipality of Tollo. When Tommy Lasorda passed away in early 2021, our countries and the world were in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic. The lockdown prevented us from honoring our Tommy in the best way. Tommy represents many characteristics of both of our small cities, along with the competitiveness inherent in many Italian athletes for whom we have a lot of respect. We thought it was very important to remember and commemorate Tommy by taking him as an example of our city, very oriented towards baseball, and establishing every September 22nd as Tommy Lasorda Day in Fullerton.”

Bruce Whitaker continued, “Tommy preferred Fullerton to Hollywood, where he lived a few blocks from my house, in a working-class area. He lived in our city for 58 years, until he passed away. Tommy Lasorda had a global impact, he was the global ambassador for baseball and that is why we honor him. His passion, his enthusiasm for the game of baseball, and his respect and love for the fans, are unmatched. We are very proud to be part of his legacy and we are happy to share it with Tollo, the place where his father Sabatino and his mother Carmela are from. It is a pleasure to be here, to share with you this bond that will forever unite our cities.”

Felipe Ruiz, Laura Lasorda and Graziano Primavera meet players at Tommy Lasorda Field

After the welcoming ceremony in the Tollo Council Chamber and exchanging gifts and awards, the day continued at Tommy Lasorda Field, which was inaugurated in May 2022, where the Tollo Dodgers and Macerata Angels U12 teams played an exhibition game. The Tommy Lasorda Museum was unveiled to the Fullerton delegation later that night. The museum represents a tribute to the extraordinary life and career of the National Baseball Hall of Fame Manager.

The Fullerton Junior Ambassadors, a group of teenage students selected by the Fullerton Sister City Association to represent the city at home and abroad, recently returned from a tour of Italy. The delegation began its travels in Rome and spent a day at the Vatican during the Jubilee Celebrations before meandering through Florence. Then it was off to Sister City Tollo for an action-packed program.

Tollo welcomed the Fullerton Junior Ambassadors with open arms from June 26-27, 2025

The gracious Italian hosts in Tollo opened their homes where the Fullerton students stayed as special guests. Relationships were built quickly and naturally as they played baseball together, ate, drank and toured through the beautiful city. The Fullerton delegation was introduced to the land, places of worship, multiple museums, a castle and amazing food. Then Tollo planned a party for the whole community in the town square, complete with a traditional parade re-enacting the siege of the Turks. When it was time to depart for the next adventure to the Amalfi Coast, the Fullerton Junior Ambassadors asked if it was possible to cancel that leg of the tour so that they could stay longer in Tollo with their new friends.

Fullerton Junior Ambassadors exchanged gifts with new Tollo friends at Tommy Lasorda Field

Immediately after the Fullerton Junior Ambassadors departed Tollo, this post appeared on Tollo Baseball and Softball Facebook site (Translated from Italian to English).

Tollo & Fullerton together in the name of Tommy Lasorda ( Laura Lasorda ).

This second meeting with the friends of Fullerton ended with tears of emotion. In less than 48 hours, our kids and their families found themselves caught up in a whirlwind of emotions, in the concoction of so much, too many things to do and damn little time on their hands! We hosted some wonderful people that we will always keep in our hearts.

A profitable exchange and hopefully a very long lasting one. Enthusiasm is through the roof just imagine repeating this adventure, why not, this time with Fullerton playing at home.

It’s undeniable that the struggle to carry on this project in the months, especially in the last few weeks has been a lot… but really, it was absolutely worth it, because we gained something that cannot be bought or sold: a deep connection that embraces the soul.

Fullerton Junior Ambassadors established lasting international friendships in Tollo, Italy

Before leaving Tollo, the Fullerton Junior Ambassadors extended their invitation to reciprocate and host an Italian Junior Ambassador Delegation in Fullerton next summer. The Fullerton Sister City Association will be looking for families to welcome students from Tollo to stay their homes sometime in July 2026.

Fullerton Junior Ambassadors listen to coordinator Marjorie Barrett at Tommy Lasorda Museum

The Fullerton-Tollo Sister City relationship hopes to foster global citizen diplomacy. Whether Italian, of Italian descent or not, individuals can make a difference in building international relationships and promoting peace. In addition to Tollo, Fullerton is also Sister City to Fukui (Japan), Morelia (Mexico), Seongnam and Yongin (South Korea). Celebrate Fullerton Sister Cities Fukui and Tollo at the Big A on August 2, 2025.

Team Italy slugger Vinnie Pasquantino named AL Player of the Week

Roberto Angotti

Team Italy and Kansas City Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino earned American League Player of the Week honors after batting .500 with a 1.305 OPS, .536 OBP and .769 slugging percentage. The “Pasquatch” also hit two home runs and collected seven RBI.

The 27-year-old slugger tied a career-high of four hits in the first game of last Thursday’s doubleheader against the St. Louis Cardinals and reached base four times against the Chicago White Sox on Saturday. He hit home runs in consecutive games on Friday and Saturday after starting the week with an RBI in five straight games.

Even more impressive, the proud Italian American native has reached base safely in 24 consecutive games, second–best in MLB behind Cleveland Guardians third baseman José Ramírez, who leads the league with 34. Vinnie Pasquantino is currently on a nine-game hitting streak.

It is the second time in his career winning AL player of the week, claiming the award back on August 15, 2022. He also played error-free defense, converting 40 total chances in five games at first base, including this web gem in which he robbed Andrew Benintendi of a base hit with a dive to his right, before spinning and firing a strike to pitcher Seth Lugo covering first base.

Representing the Azzurri in the 2023 World Baseball Classic under the leadership of National Baseball Hall of Famer Mike Piazza, Vinnie Pasquantino helped Team Italy reach its best-ever finish in the WBC Quarterfinals in Tokyo. With former MLB fan favorite and manager Francisco Cervelli leading the charge, the sky is the limit as “Pasquatch” returns to Team Italy in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. The Italians compete in Pool B against host USA, Mexico, Great Britain and Brazil at Daikan Park in Houston from March 6-11, 2026. Forza #Italia!

Team Italy pitcher Samuel Aldegheri joins LA Angels in Boston

Roberto AngottiLeave a comment

Halos manager Ron Washington has recalled pitcher Samuel Aldegheri to launch from Double-A Rocket City to Fenway Park in time for the three-game series against the Boston Red Sox.

After the Verona,Italy-born hurler made three starts for the Los Angeles Angels last year, Samuel Aldegheri is ready to make his 2025 big league debut after being optioned to the minors during spring training. The 23-year-old lefty has continued his development as a starter this season for the Rocket City Trash Pandas where he had posted a 4.54 ERA and 1.46 WHIP over 41.2 innings in eight appearances. It is speculated that the first Italian pitcher born in Italy to record a Major League victory since 1949 will be used out of the bullpen for multi-innings of relief since the club’s starting rotation is currently set in stone. Forza #Italia!

Team Italy catcher Brett Sullivan adds depth to Pittsburgh Pirates

Roberto AngottiLeave a comment

Team Italy catcher and Azzurri cleanup hitter  Brett Sullivan, who led all catchers in the 2023 World Baseball Classic with seven hits and compiled an impressive .368 batting average (7-for-19) during the international competition, was traded from the San Diego Padres to the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for outfielder Bryce Johnson and cash considerations on Wednesday, April 16, 2025.

The 31-year-old Italian American adds catching depth to the Buccos as Endy Rodriguez remains on the injured list with a right index finger laceration and Joey Bart deals with ongoing lower back soreness. Backstop Henry Davis is currently the only healthy Pirates catcher.

Brett Sullivan appeared in 40 MLB games with the San Diego Padres — 33 in 2023 and seven in 2024. In 97 Big League at-bats to date, he possesses a Major League career .206 batting average with two homers and eight RBI. While a member of the Friars, the outstanding defender was commended for his acrobatics at the plate and the subject of an MLB.com article entitled ‘I just went full-extension’: Catcher makes leaping tag at home by Padres beat reporter AJ Cassavell.

Selected by the Tampa Bays Rays in the 17th round of the 2015 draft out of the University of Pacific, Stockton native Brett Sullivan remained in the same organization until late 2021 when he signed a short-lived minor league contract with the Milwaukee Brewers. He was traded to the San Diego Padres in exchange for Victor Caratini on April 6, 2022. Prior to making his 2023 MLB debut, he played in 61 games at Triple-A El Paso and compiled a .328 batting average with seven home runs and 41 RBI. Although catcher has been his primary position, “Sully” has also played first base, third base and left field during his career.   

Brett Sullivan represented Team Italy in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, playing under manager Mike Piazza. He wrote on his Instagram page: “I’ll never forget the memories I made during this time. We put together a group that leaves it all out on the field. Thank you everyone for all of your support. We will be back 100 percent. Forza Italia!” The Italians advanced to the quarterfinals, losing to eventual champion Samarai Japan.

A strong supporter of Federazione Italiana Baseball Softball, “Sully” made an appearance at CON-X 2024, the Italian Baseball and Softball Convention. He spoke on the role of the catcher as well on the technical innovations of batting during the three-day convention at the Palacongressi in Rimini before hosting a catcher’s clinic at Collecchio Baseball Softball’s Giannino Zinelli complex. Forza Italia!

Team Italy spark plug Nicky Lopez joins hot-hitting Chicago Cubs

Roberto Angotti1 Comment

The Chicago Cubs signed versatile infielder Nicky Lopez to a one-year contract on April 23, 2025 after releasing him earlier in the spring. The Cubbies initially offered a minor-league deal with an invite to Spring Training on February 7, 2025, but the 30-year-old utility man was one of the final roster cuts before the MLB Tokyo Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. During 2025 Spring Training with the Cubs, he played in nine games and hit .450 (9-for-20).

The Team Italy 2023 World Baseball Classic spark plug (9-for-19, .474 BA, 2B, 3B, BB, SB, 2 R, 7 RBI) was an American League Gold Glove finalist last season while holding down second base for the Chicago White Sox (124 games, .241 BA). The left-handed hitter and speedster has played six seasons in the big leagues, mostly for the Kansas City Royals, who drafted him in the fifth round in 2016.

Nicky Lopez signed with the Los Angeles Angels on March 25, 2025 and made four sporatic MLB appearances (SS, 3B, LF) before being designated for assignment on April 18, 2025 to make room on the Halos roster for fan favorite Zach Neto after returning from the injured list. The proud Italian American has since made a few pinch-hit appearances and played second base for the National League Central first-place Cubs.

Nicky Lopez enjoyed every moment while wearing the Team Italy uniform in the 2023 WBC. He said, “It was an unbelievable experience. Just to be able to do it with Italy, where my ancestors grew up and are from and be able to visit Italy and see what life is like over there. I look forward to actually this next offseason going back there. But I mean, it was unbelievable, and I look forward to (representing) them again. We are proud to wear the shirt with the word Italia on our chest.”

Celebrate Fullerton Sister Cities Fukui and Tollo at the Big A on August 2, 2025

Roberto Angotti1 Comment

Join the Fullerton Sister City Association as we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the sister city relationship with Fukui, Japan on Japanese Heritage Night at Angel Stadium on Saturday, August 2, 2025. Make sure to arrive well before the 7:07 pm start to enjoy the free pre-game cultural celebration which will feature entertainment for the whole family including a taiko drum performance, food and giveaways. When purchasing tickets through the Fullerton Sister City Association, you will receive an exclusive Japanese-themed Angels jersey before the first pitch at the gate 5 courtyard. In addition, you will be helping Fullerton’s sister city in Tollo, Italy raise funds for members of Tollo Baseball and Softball and the Abruzzo All-Stars realize their dream competing in the USA and joining Team Italy at the 2026 World Baseball Classic in Houston. Email FSCAYoung@gmail.com for tickets and more information.

Yusei Kikuchi is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels. Halos manager Ron Washington gave him his first regular-season Opening Day start in his six-year MLB pitching career on March 27, 2025. The crafty Japanese lefty agreed to a three-year deal worth $63 million this offseason and is one of several veterans who was signed to supplement the club’s young core. Prior to the start of the season, the 33-year-old southpaw pitcher had a career 4.57 ERA with 837 strikeouts in 809 2/3 innings and posted a 4.05 ERA with 206 strikeouts in 175 2/3 innings with the Toronto Blue Jays and Houston Astros last year. He was particularly impressive pitching for Houston with a 2.70 ERA in 10 starts with 76 strikeouts in 60 innings. On Sunday, April 20, 2025, Kikuchi (3.38 ERA this season) allowed one (unearned) run on five hits over 5 1/3 innings with six strikeouts and four walks in a no-decision against the San Francisco Giants.

Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Yusei Kikuchi speaking to media upon his signing

History was made on August 30, 2024 when Samuel Aldegheri became the first Italian-born and developed pitcher in Major League Baseball while starting for the Los Angeles Angels and again on September 6, 2024 when he was the first pitcher born in Italy to record a Major League victory since 1949. The 23-year-old Verona native is currently pitching for Double-A Affiliate Rocket City Trash Pandas, and it won’t be long before the Angels’ Top 5 prospect re-joins the Big League squad in the pennant race.

Italian-born Samuel Aldegheri in action against the Texas Rangers on September 6, 2024

Make sure to catch all the action at the Big A on Saturday night, August 2, 2025 and receive the limited-edition Angels Japanese-themed jersey when purchasing tickets through the Fullerton Sister City Association. Email FSCAYoung@gmail.com for further information.

Team Italy’s Miles Mastrobuoni earns Seattle Mariners’ Opening Day roster spot after hot-hitting Spring Training

Roberto AngottiLeave a comment

During 2025 Spring Training, Seattle Mariners utility man Miles Mastrobuoni displayed versatility on the field playing multiple positions (3B, 2B, CF, and LF) and demonstrated his prowess at the plate (.429 batting average with three doubles, one triple, five walks, seven RBI, seven runs scored and one stolen base). M’s manager Dan Wilson said, “There’s been a lot of guys that have had good springs. Mastrobuoni has been one of those guys that has put up some good at-bats and had some key RBIs for us late in games.” As a result, Miles was selected as one of 26 players on the 2025 Seattle Mariners Opening Day roster.

Selected in the 14th round of the 2016 draft by the Tampa Bay Rays out of the University of Nevada, Reno. Northern California native Miles Mastrobuoni made his MLB debut on September 22, 2022 after spending seven seasons in the minor leagues. In 2022, he appeared in 129 Triple-A games and put together a .300 batting average with 16 home runs, 32 doubles, three triples and 16 home runs. The speedster was also successful in 23 of 26 stolen base attempts.

Mastrobuoni was traded by the Tampa Bay Rays to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for RHP Alfredo Zarraga on November 15, 2022.  He has played at every infield position but first base and the corner-outfield positions over the course of his three-year MLB career. The Seattle Mariners acquired the proud Italian American on January 14, 2025 from the Chicago Cubs for his defensive versatility and speed (16 of 17 in MLB stolen base attempts).

Under the guidance of National Baseball Hall of Famer and Team Italy manager Mike Piazza during the 2023 World Baseball Classic, Azzurri second baseman Miles Mastrobuoni went 5-for-18 with two doubles, one walk, two RBI, one run scored and one stolen base to lead the Italians to the their best-ever WBC finish in the Tokyo quarterfinals. He is one of the most underrated players in MLB. The soon-to-be Mariners fan favorites rises to the occasion when asked to perform at a high level and delivers when needed most. Forza #Italia!

Divine intervention to bring Angels’ Samuel Aldegheri and Ducks’ Damian Clara to Anaheim, California on April 9, 2025?

Roberto AngottiLeave a comment

50% of Americans believe that the supernatural is involved in determining the outcome of sporting events. That percentage includes Americans who pray for God to help their team (26 percent), think their team has been cursed (25 percent) or more generally believe God is involved in determining who wins on the field or on the ice (19 percent). Overall, half of Americans fall into one of these groups, according to a recent Public Religion Research Institute poll.

Many questions remain unanswered, and only God knows the answers. What roles, if any, will Italian-born and developed athletes like pitcher Samuel Aldegheri play in the outcome for the Los Angeles Angels at the Big A and goalie Damian Clara for the Anaheim Ducks just a puck’s throw away at the Honda Center on Wednesday, April 9, 2025? It will be the sixth day of the opening homestand for the Halos after a three-game weekend series against the Cleveland Guardians and the finale of a three-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays. It will also be and the second to the last regular season game for the Ducks as they try to extinguish the Calgary Flames on ice. April 9, 2025 is significant because it serves the final opportunity for fans to see both teams in action on the same day by watching the first pitch at 1:07 pm and then later catching the opening face-off at center ice at 7 pm.

In order for both Italians to be on their respective rosters on this particular day, divine intervention and prayers must occur. In the case of the baseball, most MLB teams have a five-man pitching rotation. However, in the case of Samuel Aldegheri, the Verona-born left-handed pitcher has Angels watching over him since Halos manager Ron Washington will protect his rotation early in the season by carrying a sixth starter on their sixth consecutive game of the opening homestand.

History was made on August 30, 2024 when Samuel Aldegheri became the first Italian-born and developed pitcher in Major League Baseball while starting for the Los Angeles Angels and again on September 6, 2024 when he was the first pitcher born in Italy to record a Major League victory since 1949. Lucca-born and San Francisco-raised Marino Pieretti debuted with the Washington Senators in 1945 and earned his first win four years later.

Following his first MLB start against the Seattle Mariners at the Big A on August 30th, Samuel Aldegheri said, “I’m happy for myself and for my family, but I’m happy for my country and for the kids in Italy who might feel like they are nobody, but I just showed them anyone can make it. They have to believe in their dreams and chase them.” Against the Texas Rangers in his first MLB win at Globe Life Park on September 6th, the 23-year-old Italian starter showcased his 94.4 mph four-seam fastball along with his changeup, curveball and slider. By mixing speeds and location throughout his six-inning and seven-strikeout performance, the crafty lefty was able to fool the 2023 World Series Champions. Skipper Ron Washington commented, “He kept a good-swinging team off balance over there. This kid has an idea of how to pitch, and he showed that tonight. He set things up so when he did throw his fastball up in the zone, he got hacks at it.”

Selected in the second round (#60 overall) of the 2023 NHL Draft, 19-year-old Damian Clara is the first Italian-born draftee in NHL history and the tallest-ever draftee in Anaheim Ducks franchise history. The 6′ 6″ goaltender from the small town of Brunico in the Dolomites made a big impression on Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek, who signed the up-and-coming prospect to a three-year entry-level contract on June 3, 2024.

Damian Clara led Team Italy to a bronze medal at the 2023 World Junior Championship (WJC) Division I, Group B tournament, going 3-1-0 with a 1.25 GAA and .954 SV%. He was named the tourney’s Best Goaltender and Team Italy’s Top Player. He also helped the young Italians win gold at the 2022 WJC Division II tournament, earning the Best Goaltender award. Damian Clara represented the Azzurri in the Division I World Championships in 2021, 2023 and 2024. At 16 years old in May 2021, he became the youngest goaltender to ever appear at the World Championships and the youngest player overall in more than 80 years.

Finding success everywhere he’s played internationally, Damian Clara shined in Sweden before getting drafted, posting a .903 save percentage with a 2.79 goals-against average for Färjestad BK at the J20 level. During the 2023-24 season, Clara went 25-8-0 with four shutouts in the HockeyAllsvenskan–Sweden’s second league–where he was named the top junior player and led Brynäs IF to a Swedish Hockey League (SHL) promotion while on loan for more playing time. During the qualification round, he posted incredible figures, recording a 1.68 goals-against average and a .931 save percentage.

Anaheim Ducks Goaltending Coach Sudarshan Maharaj said, “Damien had a pressure-filled season last year, playing for a team that was trying to make the jump back up to the SHL. And when their other goalie unfortunately had to leave the team for personal reasons, Damien was thrust into the starting role and played something like 14 games in a row just trying to establish himself. He did a fantastic job maturing as a goaltender, both technically and mentally. He spent a lot of time on his mental game as well as his technical game and he played some very pressure-filled minutes in the playoffs. Eventually, he was the starting goalie when the team took the step back to the SHL. He had an intense experience last year and he handled it very, very well.”

Although he remains an active force behind Farjestad BK in the Swedish Hockey League to gain more valuable experience, the young and promising goaltender’s path to the NHL is clear now that he has secured a three-year entry-level contract with the Ducks. The questions now remains as to when goalie Damian Clara and Angels’ left-handed pitcher Samuel Aldegheri will cross paths in Anaheim. Will divine intervention bring them together in Orange County, California on April 9, 2025?

The writing is on the wall as the Ducks and the Angels have had a series of the cross promotions in the past and have two upcoming events next year. The Ducks are hosting Angels Night on January 7, 2025 and are giving away Angels jerseys to the first 10,000 fans, while the Angels are hosting Ducks Night on September 5, 2025 and handing out Ducks Cooler Bags. At the very least, can we at least have Damian Clara throw out the first pitch to fellow Italian Samuel Aldegheri? Insiders at the Vatican only know…