News

IABF 10th Anniversary Logo Reveal

Ten years of impact have established the IABF’s foundation for the next decade. Its intact logo represents identity and community, while Azzurri blue reflects Italian heritage. Four stars symbolize education, connection, heritage, and diplomacy, the values guiding future growth.

Italian American Baseball Foundation Announces Updated Executive Leadership as Organization Celebrates 10th Anniversary

Baseball Development IABF Italian American Heritage Leadership

The Italian American Baseball Foundation (IABF) has announced an updated executive leadership slate, marking an important step forward as the organization prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2026 and expand its mission-driven work connecting Italy and the United States through baseball and softball.

Italian American Managers Continue to Shape MLB’s Modern Leadership Era

Blake Butera Chris R. Vaccaro Coaching College Baseball FIBS Giants Italian American Heritage Italy MLB Nationals Team Italy tony vitello

Major League Baseball’s evolving leadership landscape is highlighted by the hires of Blake Butera and Tony Vitello. The Italian Americans reached management through different paths—player development and college coaching—signaling MLB’s growing emphasis on leadership, culture, relationships, and innovation beyond professional playing experience.

Finding My Future in Saronno: The Softball Experience That Changed Everything

College Baseball Featured IABF International Baseball Softball Youth Softball

Rachele Iovine’s softball journey was transformed by training and playing with Saronno Softball in Italy. She practiced alongside elite international and collegiate athletes, competed in 19U games and tournaments, and later helped three Saronno players gain U.S. college exposure by joining her travel team.

Rocco Maniscalco Headlines Italian Americans in 2026 MLB Draft Class

Featured Italian American Heritage MLB Draft Player News Youth Baseball

Italian American prospects Rocco Maniscalco, Andrew Costello, Jason DeCaro, and Dominic Santarelli rank among MLB Pipeline’s Top 100. Their hitting, pitching, defensive ability, power, and international performances have positioned them as notable candidates in the 2026 MLB Draft cycle.

2025 IABF Gala Brings Another Sold-Out Celebration of Italian American Pride and Baseball Tradition

Awards Featured Gala IABF Italian American Heritage Scholarships

The 2025 IABF Gala drew more than 425 guests to Marina del Rey to celebrate Italian American heritage, baseball, and the organization’s mission. Honorees included Francisco Cervelli, Phil Cuzzi, Roman Anthony, John Ricco, Alanna Rizzo, Ned Colletti, Billy Martin, Joe Urso, and Sam Militello.

“Andiamo” Mini-Documentary Showcases Italian American Baseball Foundation’s Mission to Grow Baseball in Italy; will debut on CIAO USA TV

Clinics IABF International Baseball Media Youth Baseball

The Italian American Baseball Foundation announced “Andiamo,” a mini-documentary about its mission to expand baseball in Italy, premiering September 6 on CIAO USA TV. Produced by Emmy Award-winning executive trustee Chris R. Vaccaro, the film follows youth clinics held in Castiglione della Pescaia, Parma, and Bologna.

At least 38 Italian Americans Selected in 2025 MLB Draft

Italian American Heritage Italian Americans MLB MLB Draft Player News Professional Baseball

Nearly 40 Italian American players were selected in the 2025 MLB Draft, marking the fifth consecutive year of increased representation. Two were chosen among the top 50, three more in the top 80, and additional players were drafted through the 20th round, strengthening professional baseball’s future talent pool.

Binghamton Rumble Ponies Celebrate Italian Heritage in Grand Fashion as Spicy Meatballs

Binghamton Fundraising IABF Italian American Heritage Milb Professional Baseball Spicy Meatballs

Hats off to the Binghamton Rumble Ponies for pulling off one of the most entertaining and unique Italian heritage celebrations on any baseball field in America this year. IABF Trustee Chris Vaccaro was happy to play a part in the alternate identity “Spicy Meatballs” activation and marketing campaign with the Double-A affiliate of the New.

Cervelli-IABF Academy Team Plays in U.S. at Pony League World Series

Cervelli Featured IABF International Baseball pony league Team Italy Youth Baseball

The Francisco Cervelli IABF Academy Team represented Italy in the Pony World Series tournament in the United States. The appearance marked a major step for the academy, bringing Italy and America together through the dedication of its players, coaches, and families, while beginning a broader international journey.

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