Team Italia

FIBS President Marco Mazzieri reflects on Team Italy in 2026 World Baseball Classic

Roberto AngottiLeave a comment
President Marco Mazzieri brings new life to Federazione Italiana Baseball Softball

Roberto Angotti: After two wins over Brazil and Great Britain, what emotions are you feeling? 

Marco Mazzieri: The joy, the gratitude, the emotions are unreal right now. But I think we should start from the very beginning about 14 months ago when I made the call to Ned Colletti and ask him if it would help me with this adventure. His excitement was second to none and his commitment since he’s been really something extraordinary. You know he is a big name in the industry of sport in the U.S. Having worked in the Chicago Cubs’ front office (1982-1993) and then becoming the San Francisco Giants’ Assistant General Manager (1994-2004) and later the Los Angeles Dodgers’ General Manager (2006-2014), there is a lot of experience he brings to Team Italy. For him to talk with the agents, the players and the franchise general managers on a one-on-one, face-to-face basis made it kind of easier for me to be able to put this roster and remarkable coaching staff that possesses 21 Word Series rings all together. Not only that, it’s the passion, the leadership, the commitment, the determination and the joy that they bring. To be able to share their knowledge is what makes it special for these players. We have quite a special group of people first, and then, very good players. Our rotation is deep and our lineup, I mean, you’ve seen it for these past two games. The veteran guys and the young ones are doing their job. So it’s very, very special. 

Team Italy GM Ned Colletti speaks to the Azzurri squad and staff at Cubs Spring Training Camp in Mesa, Arizona

Roberto Angotti: Team Italy has always been looking upon as the underdog, always fighting as if it’s do-or-die. Does that still apply to this group?

Marco Mazzieri: Yeah, but I would say we don’t mind being the underdog. Throughout my days as Team Italy manager, the Italians were always considered an afterthought. In fact, from the very beginning when all our ancestors came from Italy, they were an afterthought back in the past. But at the same time, they helped build this country. So I think that the pride, commitment and determination of those people who sacrificed everything is what makes these players even more appreciative of being here. I think being the underdog is something that we enjoy because we enjoy overcoming adversities. It’s always been hard for us. The WBC brackets have always been tough for us since the very beginning and we always showed up playing our best. By winning our first two games against Brazil and Great Britain, we have now qualified to appear in our sixth consecutive WBC, which I consider something very special. That was the first step, but now we’re shooting for the next round. 

Team Italy manager Francisco Cervelli

Roberto Angotti: Having secured the silver medal in the 2025 European Baseball Championship, Team Italy has a lot of momentum coming into the 2026 World Baseball Classic under manager Francisco Cervelli. What is the winning formula? 

Marco Mazzieri: Let me go back to the beginning of this interview when I told you that the first thing was to call Ned Colletti to help me in putting this roster together. The next step was making a second call to Francisco Cervelli, who from the very beginning of our relationship when he played for me in the 2009 World Baseball Classic as a young prospect at the time. He told me one day that he would be our manager. So it gives me goosebumps by reflecting on this memory 17 years ago. He told me that then and now he is the Team Italy manager and doing a great job. His passion and energy is just second to none. It rubs off on the impact on the players every day. He really cares for his players and what he did last year in the Euros with Team Italy is a sporting miracle, resurrecting from ninth place in the prior edition to a second place finish in 2025. He drove up and down the country to look for the best players in Italy. He discovered some gold along the way because nobody knew about some of them. One day he called me from Parma and said he was watching a second level team. He told me that he was watching this kid taking batting practice and he was hitting the ball like an MLB MVP. We helped develop Giaconino Lasaracina into a prospect who recently signed a professional contract with the Toronto Blue Jays. It is very special for him. A 22-year-old signing a contract with a competitive major league club is to the credit of Francisco Cervelli. What he did was excellent. The team would go to war for him, and the way they played really showed. These guys are pretty much doing the same thing. So, it’s about how much you care for the players. If you want them to give you all they got, you need to show them you really care.

Team Italy pitcher Gabriele Quattrini
Team Italy pitcher Claudio Scotti

Roberto Angotti: The World Baseball Classic has always been a platform for Italian players to shine. Who are some of the players that have impressed you the most? 

Marco Mazzieri: Gabriele Quattrini and Claudio Scotti are on this roster, but we miss our team captain at home, Alberto Mineo. It’s not the same without him and we are really sorry that he couldn’t be here. He would have shown us his leadership. But Gabriele Quattrini and Claudio Scotti have risen to the occasion.  I mean, pitching at this level with no fear and throwing strikes getting people out. Gabriele Quattrini earned the win against Great Britain (1.1 IP, H, BB, K) and ended his outing with a strikeout. It was very, very gratifying for us. All these guys are here to develop. We will possibly see more and more players from Italy making this WBC roster. Because that’s what it’s all about. Vinnie Pasquantino said it best when he revealed that these guys are not only here to win and to compete, but they’re here to give hope to Italian players and help grow the game. It’s always been that way and the fact that they’re really excited in helping the progress program while getting the best result is great.

Dave Righetti, Alessandro Maestri, Drew Rossi, Frank Menechino, Sal Fasano, Jack Santora and Jorge Posada

Roberto Angotti: Team Italy has a dream team MLB All-Star coaching staff. What was your reaction when seeing the names in print for the first time? 

Marco Mazzieri: I grew up watching all of them on television. So you can imagine for me what this means for me. During my managing time. Mike Hargrove, Tom Trebelhorn, Nick Punto and all the great coaches that I have worked with have been a blessing. But this WBC coaching staff is the top of the top. It doesn’t get any better than Francisco Cervelli, Jorge Posada, Dave Righetti, Ron Wotus, Frank Menechino, Sal Fasano, Allard Baird, Alessandro Maestri, Jack Santora and Lipso Nava. All because of their love of the game and their love of Italy. There are so many things that go into it. That makes it extraordinary to me because everything is coming together in such a short time. That is kind of gratifying for me as a president. I hope that the people back home will understand what this means as a forward step in our progress with these players on the roster.

Bill Holmberg

Roberto Angotti: Italian Baseball Hall of Famer and former FIBS Academy Director Bill Holmberg must be looking down from heaven and smiling at what you have done. 

Marco Mazzieri: He was a great man who was always about growing the game in Italy. Bill Holmberg was always looking at how to improve baseball at all levels. I’m sure he is very happy from up there to see Alessandro Maestri being the pitching coach because of the hard work he put into him. You know, of all those years that I have been managing, I think that we have built a legacy with former players turned coaches like Jack Santora, Frank Catalanotto and Nick Punto. I would love to get Alex Liddi to join us as he is like a son to me. We want and need to make Italy proud.

Team Italy and Los Angeles Angels pitcher Sam Aldegheri

Roberto Angotti: Please give me your thoughts on Samuel Aldegheri after his outstanding pitching performance against Brazil (4.2 IP, H, BB, 8 K).

Marco Mazzieri: It’s hard to find the right words to describe the kind of performance that he had. There’s a lot of pressure in the WBC opening game. Of course, it’s a must-win game. Instead of staying back in Arizona at Angels Spring Training trying to secure a place in the pitching rotation, he decided to come out and represent his country. It says a lot, it shows a lot and the way he performed, I think put himself in a good position to get a rotation spot for the Angels. He  painted the corners and had great control on the mound.  He just couldn’t do any better. I mean, that’s one of the best performances in the World Baseball Classic that I have ever seen. 

Roberto Angotti: Team Italy and Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel also called a great game behind the plate.

Marco Mazzieri: We knew that coming in the WBC. Kyle Teel is the kind of player that is demonstrating his outstanding power and potential here. But the excitement, passion and determination to play for this team is even more impressive. It was hard to sit him out of the lineup yesterday, but we had to because the Chicago White Sox Club didn’t want him to catch back-to-back games in early March. He was a bull in the pen because he wanted to play and that shows a lot.  

Roberto Angotti: The Kansas City Royals and Nick Leto, Director of Royals’ Minor League Operations, have been good to Team Italy with the addition of Vinnie Pasquantino and Jac Caglianone. 

Marco Mazzieri: Nick Leto has always been a friend to Italian baseball, and our program. He has always been of a lot of help in many different ways. By having Jac Caglianone and, of course, our captain Vinnie Pasquantino has made it special. Vinnie has embraced the captain role with grace and commitment.  I don’t have enough words to thank Vinnie, Jac, Nick, and the entire Royals organization for allowing their players to come here and be the pros that they are. 

Roberto Angotti: Any final words for everyone in Italy watching the WBC? 

Marco Mazzieri: Give us time. We have an idea and we know what to do. But, you know, things don’t change in a heartbeat. We are trying to do good things with good people. We have the right people to get the job done, but we need time. So be patient. Before commenting or criticizing all the time, just see what you have in front of you.

Roberto Angotti: Thank you for making history! Forza Italia…

Team Italy powers to 8-0 shutout over Brazil in 2026 World Baseball Classic debut

Roberto Angotti1 Comment

March 7, 2026 Brazil-Italy Game Recap at Daikin Park, Houston, Texas 

Team Italy starting pitcher Sam Aldegheri looked good early in the top of the first inning, striking out Gabriel Gomes on three pitches. A walk to the dangerous Lucas Ramirez, son of Manny Ramirez, followed. Then Leonardo Reginatto struck out swinging and Gabriel Gomes was picked off first base for the third out.

Brazil sent out lefty starting pitcher Enzo Sawayama to combat the left-handed heavy Team Italy hitting lineup in the bottom of the first inning. After a Jakob Marsee flyout to center, second baseman Jon Berti doubled. Vinnie Pasquantino grounded out to second, advancing Berti to third base. However, he would remain stranded 90 feet away from the plate after a sharply hit line drive flyout to right field by cleanup hitter Dominic Canzone ended the scoring threat.

Sam Aldegheri threw a scoreless top of the second inning. A quick strikeout of Dante Bichette Jr. and a flyout to right field by Lucas Rojo was followed by another strikeout of Victor Mascai. 

Astros hometown hero Zach Dezenzo received a warm reception at Houston’s Daikin Park when he stepped into the batter’s box but succumbed to a strikeout by Enzo Sawayama. A Kyle Teel infield groundout to second and a Jac Caglianone line-drive flyout to second ended the second inning.  

In the top of the third inning, Gabriel Do Carmo singled to center field and advanced to second base on a sacrifice bunt by Felipe Koragi. Then Sam Aldegheri collected his fifth and sixth strikeout courtesy of Gabriel Maciel and Gabriel Gomes.  

In the bottom of the third inning, Brazil lefty Enzo Sawayama struck out Thomas Saggese before Dante Nori walked and Jakob Marsee grounded into a fielder’s choice. Then Jon Berti singled and Jakob Marsee was called out at third base after an accurate throw by right fielder Lucas Ramirez. 

Sam Aldegheri returned to pitch the top of the fourth inning. Lucas Ramirez fouled out to third. Leonardo Reginatto walked and Dante Bichette Jr. grounded into a 5-4-3 double play. 

In the bottom of the fourth inning, Vinnie Pasquantino just missed on a deep flyout on the left field warning track. Dominic Canzone grounded out to third and Zach Dezenzo struck out.

Lefty Sam Aldegheri appeared to get better as the contest progressed in the top of the fifth inning. After back-to-back strikeouts of Lucas Rojo and Victor Mascai, Azzurri manager Francisco Cervelli summoned Alek Jacob from the bullpen. The right-handed reliever struck out Gabriel Gomes to end the top of the fifth inning. 

In the bottom of the fifth inning, Brazil made a pitching change and brought in lefty Hector Villarroel. The Italians nearly broke through. After catcher Kyle Teel singled up the middle, Jac Caglianone popped out to third and Thomas Saggese hit a long flyout to deep center. Then Dante Nori doubled over first baseman Dante Bichette Jr. With runners on second and third, Jakob Marsee lined out to second to quell the potential Team Italy scoring rally. 

Alek Jacob returned to pitch the top of the sixth inning and struck out Felipe Korage. Then a Gabriel Maciel flyout to left and a Gabriel Gomes strikeout made for a quick half inning. 

The tension was building in the Team Italy dugout and an offensive breakout was brewing in the bottom of the sixth inning. Brazil lefty Hector Villarroel faced MLB veteran Jon Berti, who walked on four pitches and later stole second base to get into scoring position. Azzurri captain Vinnie Pasquantino fouled out to catcher Gabriel Do Carmo before Dominic Canzone walked, which prompted a visit to the mound to give the scouting report on Zach Dezenzo. Despite the intelligence, the Azzurri third baseman connected with an RBI single to right. With runners on second and third, Kyle Teel struck out swinging. Then Jac Caglianone hit an RBI double and Zach Dezenzo was thrown out at the plate by right fielder Lucas Ramirez to end the two-run rally.  

In the top of the seventh inning, reliever Gordan Graceffo entered the ballgame. Despite surrendering a single to Leonardo Reginatto, the fired up right hander struck out Lucas Ramirez, Dante Bichette Jr. and Lucas Rojo.

Brazil brought in former Team Italy pitcher Murilo Gouvea in the bottom of the seventh inning. Thomas Saggese was called out on strikes before Dante Nori slugged a home run to right field to give the Italians a 3-0 advantage. Then Jakob Marsee patiently earned a walk and Jon Berti struck out swinging. After issuing a walk to Vinnie Pasquantino, Murilo Gouvea was replaced by lefty reliever Oscar Nakaoshi. With runners on first and second with two out, designated hitter Dominic Canzone connected with a three-run bomb into the right field bleachers to give Team Italy a commanding 6-0 lead. Zach Dezenzo followed with a walk and Kyle Teel singled to right, but a Jac Caglianone groundout to short ended the inning.

In the top of the eight inning, Miles Mastrobuoni replaced Zach Dezenzo at third base and pitcher Gordon Graceffo returned to the mound for Team Italy. After issuing a walk to Victor Mascai, the hard-throwing right hander was relieved by Claudio Scotti. The Italian-born and developed pitcher struck out Gabriel Do Carmo. Then Felipe Koragi grounded into a fielder’s choice and Gabriel Maciel singled to right field. Pinch-hitter Osvaldo Carvalho fouled out to Miles Mastrobuoni for the third out.

The Italians nailed the coffin shut in the bottom of the eighth inning when scoring twice off reliever Caio De Araujo to make it an 8-0 game. After Thomas Saggese grounded out to third,

Dante Nori clubbed his second home run of the game into the Team Italy bullpen in right field. Then Jakob Marsee grounded out to second. A two-out rally ensued as Jon Berti doubled to left and later crossed the plate on an RBI single by Dominic Canzone. 

In the top of the ninth inning, Sam Antonacci replaced Jon Berti at second base and pitcher Claudio Scotti returned to the hill. Despite giving up an infield single to pinch-hitter Victor Ito, Claudio Scotti closed out the game to ensure the 8-0 shutout. 

Team Italy returns on Sunday, March 8th for WBC game two against Great Britain. First pitch is scheduled at 1 pm (ET). Forza #Italia!

BOX SCORE

By Roberto Angotti

http://www.MLBItalia.com

Team Italy Outfielders in the 2026 World Baseball Classic

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Jac Caglianone was selected by the Kansas City Royals in the 1st round (6th overall) of the 2024 MLB Draft out of the University of Florida. As the Gators’ only two-way player — both as a powerful hitter and an effective left-handed pitcher, the phenom set the school’s career home run record (75) and tied an NCAA Division I record by homering in nine straight games in 2024. Caglianone’s college hitting was elite with over a .410 batting average. He also was a force on the mound pitcher with impressive strikeout numbers, which resulted in receiving the 2024 John Olerud Two-Way Player of the Year Award and being named 2024 First Team All-American.

Kansas City has used him as a position player, primarily at first base and in the outfield in the minors. He climbed the Royals’ minor league system rapidly and made his MLB debut on June 3, 2025. In his first MLB season with Kansas City, Caglianone hit seven home runs and registered 18 RBI. KCSN analyst Joel Penfield recently commented on his power potential in 2026: “The ceiling is sky-high from a power perspective. If it all comes together for him, he’s a dude who can hit 40 homers.” The former University of Florida two-way star turned Royals outfielder can change the landscape for Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic with one swing of the bat.

Dominic Canzone was selected by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 8th round (242nd overall) of the 2019 MLB Draftout of Ohio State University. He hit over .340 with strong run production and baserunning throughout his college career. Canzone set a school record with a 59-game on-base streak, breaking the mark previously held by Nick Swisher. He earned All-Big Ten honors and was named a third-team All-American as a junior.

Canzone debuted professionally in the Diamondbacks’ minor league system in 2019 and steadily worked his way up through the ranks. He made his MLB debut on July 8, 2023 with the D-backs. On July 31, 2023, he was traded mid-season to the Seattle Mariners and has since seen regular playing time in the outfield and as a left-handed bat in the lineup. In 2025, he posted a strong offensive season — hitting around .300 with 11 home runs and 32 RBI — helping solidify his role with Seattle. Notably, on September 16, 2025, he had a career-highlight performance going 5-for-5 with three home runs and four RBI — the first three-homers game of his career and a rare feat in Mariners history. The Team Italy offense is blessed with Canzone, who combines power and speed to drive balls into gaps, steal bases and manufacture runs.

Jakob Marsee was selected by the San Diego Padres in the 6th round (180th overall) of the 2022 MLB Draft out of Central Michigan University. He began his professional career that summer, splitting time between the Arizona Complex League and Single-A ball. Over the next seasons he steadily rose through the Padres’ minor league system, showing a good combination of on-base skills, power, and speed. In May 2024, Marsee was traded to the Miami Marlins organization along with other prized prospects in exchange for Luis Arráez. He continued to develop in the Marlins’ system, playing at Double-A and Triple-A before earning a big-league call-up. Marsee made his MLB debut on August 1, 2025. Marsee made Marlins history in his debut game by drawing three walks — a first in franchise history — and quickly became a fan favorite. During the 2025 season, he impressed as a rookie posting a .292 average with five home runs and 33 RBI and earned National League Rookie of the Month honors in August. Marsee has made an impact with his bat and on the basepaths, flashing excellent speed and stealing bases. Showing a mix of contact, extra-base hits, and patience at the plate, his ability to work counts, get on base, and create scoring opportunities gives Team Italy the ultimate leadoff hitter and table-setter for the dangerous power hitters that follow him.

Nick Morabito was selected by the New York Mets in the 2nd round (75th overall) of the 2022 MLB Draft out of Gonzaga College High School, where he emerged as one of Washington DC’s top high school players and earned Gatorade District of Columbia Baseball Player of the Year Award. He made his professional debut with the Florida Complex League Mets in 2022 and quickly showed development in the organization’s lower levels. During the 2024 season, splitting time between Single-A and High-A, Morabito posted a .312 batting average with 59 stolen bases, earning Mets Minor League Player of the Year honors. In 2025 playing Double-A ball, he slashed .273/.348/.385 with 49 stolen bases in 118 games, continuing to show his elite speed and overall offensive contributions. After the 2025 season, New York added Morabito to their 40-man roster. He is considered one of the Mets’ top prospects heading into 2026, valued especially for his speed, defense, and on-base skills. Capable of playing all three outfield positions, the versatile Morabito is on the cusp of becoming a major league weapon.

Dante Nori was selected by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 1st round (27th overall) of the 2024 MLB Draft out of Northville High School, where he hit .477 with 20 stolen bases to lead his team to a Michigan state championship title. Nori made his pro debut in Single-A and has climbed quickly to Double-A, showcasing his speed, contact ability, and on-base skills. During the course of 125 games in the 2025 season, he hit .261 with four home runs, 47 RBI, and recorded 52 stolen bases. Nori earned Phillies Minor League Player of the Month along the way. Baseball America and other scouts rate Nori highly for his hit tools, speed, defensive ability, and overall athleticism, projecting him as a potential future leadoff hitter and everyday outfielder. After the 2025 season he was invited to play in the Arizona Fall League, where he continued to develop against advanced competition. Equipped with elite speed and possessing a disciplined approach at the plate, Nori is considered one of the Phillies’ top prospects. He has baseball in his blood as his grandfather played professionally in the Cubs and Mets minor league systems. Look for Nori to give Team Italy a big boost in the World Baseball Classic.

Team Italy Infielders in the 2026 World Baseball Classic

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Vinnie Pasquantino AKA “Pasquatch” and “The Italian Nightmare” was selected by the Kansas City Royals in the 11th round (319th overall) of the 2019 MLB Draft out of Old Dominion University, He made his professional debut in 2019 with the Rookie-level Burlington Royals, hitting .294 with 14 home runs and 53 RBI in 57 games. After a hiatus iin 2020 due to the pandemic, he produced impressive offensive prowess in 2021 while moving up from Single-A to Double-A.

The left-handed slugger and reliable first baseman began 2022 in Triple-A before making his MLB debut on June 28, 2022. During his rookie season, he earned American League Player of the Week honors. Last season he established himself as Royals’ most dependable hitter, batting .264 with 32 home runs and 113 RBI (6th in MLB). With a big-league career .266 average with 70 homers and 262 RBI to date, Pasquantino brings consistent offensive production with power, elite plate discipline and clutch hitting ability to the Team Italy lineup.

Miles Mastrobuoni was selected by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 14th round (420th overall) of the 2016 MLB Draft out of the University of Nevada, Reno. Throughout his minor league career in the Rays organization, the versatile infielder posted strong offensive numbers, including a .300 batting average with 16 home runs and 23 stolen bases in 129 games at Triple-A in 2022,

Mastrobuoni made his MLB debut on September 22, 2022 and was traded later to the Chicago Cubs on November 15, 2022, He made the 2023 Cubs’ Opening Day roster and spent parts of the 2023 and 2024 seasons with Chicago. On January 14, 2025, Mastrobuoni was traded to the Seattle Mariners. In 2025 he played multiple infield and outfield positions, while providing speed offensively on the bases (22 career steals). Known for his steady contact and situational hitting, the Mariners’ prized utility player is often used off the bench as a pinch-hitter since he can move runners on the bases and possesses excellent bat control.

Jon Berti was selected by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 18th round (559th overall) of the 2011 MLB Draft out of Bowling Green State University, where he set multiple school hitting records, including single-season batting average and hit total. Berti made his MLB debut with the Jays on September 26, 2018 before playing for the Miami Marlins from 2019-2023. He showcased his speed and versatility, playing multiple positions in the infield and outfield. The consummate utility player had a breakout season in 2022, when he led MLB in stolen bases (41) in just 102 games and set a record for the fewest games played in a full season by an MLB stolen-base champion. He also set a Marlins franchise record with 21 consecutive stolen bases without being caught in 2022.

Berti was traded to the New York Yankees in 2024 and contributed as a versatile professional who saw postseason action, including starts at first base during the playoffs. He signed with the Chicago Cubs in 2025 after establishing himself as a high-energy player with elite speed and excellent baserunning instincts. The proud Italian American brings his seasoned veteran presence with over eight years of MLB experience and a career .256 batting average to the Team Italy roster.

Thomas Saggese was selected by the Texas Rangers in the 5th round (145th overall) of the 2020 MLB Draft out of Carlsbad High School. After playing his first two high school seasons at Rancho Bernardo High School, he transferred to Carlsbad as a junior and hit .422 with a .500 OBP. Saggese also tied for the San Diego Section lead with 10 home runs to earn the right to play in the San Diego Section All-Star game alongside Marcelo Mayer and Spencer Jones.

The California native made his professional debut in 2021 in Low-A, where he showcased the pop in his bat. He climbed the Rangers’ minor league system in 2022, when he was recognized as an MiLB.com Organizational All-Star, Baseball America High Class A All-Star and South Atlantic League Post-Season All-Star after hitting 15 home runs and becoming an offensive weapon. Saggese was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals on July 30, 2023, and shortly after earned Texas League MVP and Post-Season All-Star honors as a result of a batting average over .300 with 26 home runs and 111 RBI in 139 games between Double-A and Triple-A. He made his MLB debut on September 10, 2024 and went on to play in 18 games that season. The versatile infielder split time between Triple-A Memphis and the Cardinals in 2025, when he appeared in 82 games with starts at second base, shortstop, and third base. Saggese put together a .258 batting average with two homers and 25 RBI. Known for strong contact skills and the ability to drive the ball with extra bases — a skill that made him a standout in the minors, the Team Italy shortstop will undoubtedly be a force to be reckoned with in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Zach Dezenzo was selected in the 12th round (373rd overall) of the 2022 MLB Draft (373rd overall) out of Ohio State University, where he earned recognition as a Freshman All-American by Collegiate Baseball after a strong debut campaign which included double-digit home runs. Dezenzo began his pro career in Single-A with the Fayetteville Woodpeckers and climbed the Astros’ system steadily. In 2023, he impressed with power and improved contact skills, hitting 14 home runs and maintaining solid production as he moved from High-A to Double-A. He also saw action in the Arizona Fall League, gaining respected experience against top prospects.

Dezenzo made his MLB debut on August 6, 2024 and became the first alumnus of the MLB Draft League to reach the big leagues. In 2025, he made the Astros’ Opening Day roster and appeared in 34 games, batting .245 with two home runs and 10 RBI before an injury sidelined him mid-season. Dezenzo is noted for his size and power potential, possessing strong bat speed and extra-base hit ability. Defensively he has played first base, third base, and in the corner outfield, providing positional flexibility. Scouts and reports praise his improving bat-to-ball skills, which helped him sustain offensive production as he moved up in the minor leagues.

Andrew Fischer was selected in the 1st round (20th overall) of the 2025 MLB Draft by the Milwaukee Brewers out of the University of Tennessee. He began his college baseball journey at Duke University, where he set the program’s freshman home run record (11) in 47 games. Fischer then transferred to the University of Mississippi for his sophomore season, leading the team in home runs, hits, RBI, and total bases, which earned him All-Region and Second Team All-Southeastern Conference (SEC) honors. After another transfer to the University of Tennessee for the 2025 season, he had a monumental year: hitting .341/.497/.760 with 25 home runs, 65 RBI, and 70 runs scored as well as reaching base in all 65 games played. Fischer led the SEC in home runs and ranked among conference leaders in on-base percentage and slugging. Named First Team All-SEC and First Team All-American, his outstanding performance made him one of the top college bats in the country and a coveted prospect for the 2025 draft.

For the Milwaukee Brewers High-A affiliate Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, the promising third baseman played in 13 games and hit .311 with one homer, 13 RBI, eight runs scored and eight stolen bases. Fischer is considered one of the Brewers’ top prospects and a potential future middle-of-the-order hitter due to his rare combination of contact skills, power, and plate discipline. Blessed with plus power to all fields from the left side of the plate, he generates consistent extra-base hits. while possessing a strong eye at the plate and high walk rates. With the ability to play the corner infield, Fischer offers defensive versatility as he develops into a budding star. He is currently the top MLB third base prospect according to both MLB PipeLine and Baseball America.

Sam Antonacci was selected by the Chicago White Sox in the fifth round (140th overall) of the 2024 MLB Draft out of Coastal Carolina University, where he slashed .367/.523/.504 with six home runs and 47 RBI in Division I competition. Known for his disciplined hitting, high on-base skills, and speed, Antonacci is one of the White Sox’s top prospects. He starred at Sacred Heart-Griffin High School in Springfield, Illinois, batting over .530 as a senior and began his college career at Heartland Community College. As a sophomore, Antonacci led NJCAA Division II in batting average (.515), RBI (103), runs (105), hits (106), doubles (32) and on-base percentage (.618) to earn 2023 NJCAA Division II Player of the Year honors and help Heartland win a national title before transferring to Coastal Carolina University. He started all 61 games at third base for Coastal during the 2024 season, slashing .367/.523/.504. His .367 batting average and .523 on-base percentage led Coastal’s offense. Antonacci, who reached base safely in the first 44 games of the season, totaled 83 hits, 13 doubles, and six home runs that year. Defensively, he finished the season with a .911 fielding percentage at third base. In 169 chances, he recorded 55 putouts, 99 assists, and was part of nine double plays.

Antonacci made his professional debut with the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers (Low-A) in 2024, hitting .333 with 14 RBI in his first 23 games. In 2025, he split time between the Winston-Salem Dash (High-A) and the Birmingham Barons (Double-A). Over the course of 116 games, Antonacci hit .291 with five home runs, 57 RBI, and 48 stolen bases, proving his lightning speed and contact ability. He earned White Sox Minor League Player of the Month (June 2025) for his high OPS and impact on the base paths. After the 2025 regular season, he excelled in the Arizona Fall League, slashing .378/.505/.541 with 11 stolen bases in 19 games, further boosting his prospect status. Known for his disciplined approach at the plate with high walk rates and strong contact ability. Antonacci possesses excellent on-base skills as his stolen base totals are among the best in the White Sox system. In addition, he offers position versatility, having played second base, shortstop, and third base in the minors. Heading into 2026, Antonacci is one of Chicago’s fastest-rising prospects since he is on the cusp of reaching Triple-A and destined to reach MLB sooner than expected. MLBPipeLine ranks him the 10th MLB second base prospect and the 11th Chicago White Sox prospect.

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 led Team Italy to a silver medal in the 2025 Senior Elite European Baseball Championship in Rotterdam, where the Azzurri cleanup hitter slashed .480/.552/.640 with five RBI during the competition. The corner infielder rose to the occasion in the Euro semifinal game against the Czech Republic on September 26th and hit for the cycle while scoring three runs and picking up three RBI. As a result, Renzo Martini earned the 2025 European Baseball Championship Best Hitter award. He now joins Team Italy in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Team Italy WBC prospects: Renzo Martini and Giaconino Lasaracina

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Former New York Yankees prospect and current Team Italy corner infielder Renzo Martini

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 led Team Italy to a silver medal in the 2025 Senior Elite European Baseball Championship in Rotterdam, where the Azzurri cleanup hitter slashed .480/.552/.640 with five RBI during the competition. The corner infielder rose to the occasion in the Euro semifinal game against the Czech Republic on September 26th and hit for the cycle while scoring three runs and picking up three RBI. As a result, Renzo Martini earned the 2025 European Baseball Championship Best Hitter award.

Giaconino Lasaracina is congratulated after hitting a two-run homer against the Czech Republic

Giaconino “Nino” Lasaracina split time defensively behind the plate and in right field during the 2025 U23 European Baseball Championship in the Czech Republic. 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 Torinese, he has produced massive numbers (.366 BA, .592 SLG, .440 OBP, 1.032 OPS).

The 22-year-old Italian designated hitter stepped up in a big way at the 2025 Senior Elite European Baseball Championship in Rotterdam, where he led the tournament with six home runs to claim the Euro Home Run Hitter award and top all batters with 32 total bases while registering second in RBI (15). He has since signed to play for Parma Clima and join mentor Alberto Mineo. Currently working out of Grosseto under the watchful eye of Team Italy trainer Gianni Natale and Azzurri manager Francisco Cervelli, Lasaracina has his sights on making the 2026 World Baseball Classic roster alongside WBC prospect Renzo Martini. Forza #Italia!

Team Italy warms up against Cubs and Angels in Arizona before WBC in Houston

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Team Italy manager Francisco Cervelli and the Azzurri baseball squad prepare for battle in World Baseball Classic (WBC) Pool B action featuring USA, Mexico, Great Britain and Brazil at Daikin Park in Houston from March 7-11, 2026 with two Pre-WBC Exhibition Games against the Chicago Cubs at Sloan Park in Mesa on Tuesday, March 3rd and the Los Angeles Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium on Wednesday, March 4th.

2026 Chicago Cubs Spring Training single-game tickets go on sale to the general public Friday, December 5th at 11 am (CST). Sign up to become an Angels Insider by clicking HERE in order to participate in the Angels Insider Spring Training Pre-Sale beginning on Friday, November 21st at 10 am (PT) and continuing through Sunday, November 23rd at 10 pm (PT).

Single-game tickets for all World Baseball Classic games hosted at Daikin Park in Houston — including Pool B and quarterfinals — will go on sale Thursday, January 15, 2026. Forza #Italia!

Italian-born and developed Samuel Aldegheri starts for LA Angels on September 23, 2025

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Since the All-Star break while starting for Triple-A Salt Lake and Double-A Rocket City, lefty pitcher Samuel Aldegheri has recorded impressive numbers: 5-2, 2.43 ERA, 1.04 WHIP and 44 K and 15 BB in 55.2 innings pitched. The 24-year-old Verona, Italy native will start for the Los Angeles Angels on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 when the Halos host the Kansas City Royals. If all goes well, he will likely return as the starter in the final game of the season against the Houston Astros on Sunday, September 28th.

Older brother Mattia Aldegheri is currently pitching for Team Italy in the 2025 European Baseball Championship in Rotterdam. He could very well get the start against France on Wednesday, September 24th. The 27-year-old right-handed hurler allowed just one hit with four strikeouts and no walks in four innings of work against Lithuania on September 21st. How Team Italy can reach the 2025 European Baseball Championship finals Forza #Italia!

How Team Italy can reach the 2025 European Baseball Championship finals

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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!

Team Italy slugger Vinnie Pasquantino named AL Player of the Week

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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

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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!