10th Anniversary IABF Gala

DECEMBER 10, 2026 @ 6:30 PM
IABF NEWS

News

Joseph DiMartino Elected Treasurer of IABF

The Italian American Baseball Foundation elected Joseph DiMartino as treasurer for a three-year term. DiMartino, Managing Director and Head of Repo Trading at MUFG Securities Americas, brings finance and community experience to the role and said he would support IABF’s mission to develop youth in the United States and abroad.

Italian American Baseball Foundation Launches College Scholarship Program

The Italian American Baseball Foundation launched its first college scholarship program for eligible student-athletes who demonstrate Italian American heritage and financial need. Applicants must meet membership, heritage, GPA, and college baseball or softball requirements, submit supporting documents, and complete an interview.

IABF Ambassador Frank Catalanotto Named Hofstra Baseball Head Coach

Frank Catalanotto was named Hofstra University’s 15th head baseball coach after a 14-year Major League Baseball career and two seasons leading New York Tech. He guided the Bears to their first Division II College World Series appearance, a school-record 37 wins, and a national ranking.

At least 18 Italian Americans Taken in 2021 MLB Draft

More than 15 Italian Americans were selected in the MLB Draft, with Frank Mozzicato leading the group as the Royals’ seventh overall pick. Other selections included Anthony Solometo by the Pirates, Shane Panzini by the Royals, and players drafted by the Dodgers, Cardinals, Astros, Giants, Angels, Brewers, Cubs, Tigers, Indians, Athletics, and Reds.

Trey Mancini Wows Audience in MLB HR Derby

Trey Mancini finished second to Pete Alonso in the MLB Home Run Derby after hitting 59 total home runs. The 2021 IABF Tommy LaSorda Award winner, Mancini returned to baseball 16 months after battling cancer and inspired fans and fellow cancer patients with his comeback.

Italian Americans Make 2021 MLB All-Star Roster as Players, Coaches, Officials

Italian Americans featured prominently in the 2021 MLB All-Star Game in Denver, including players Joey Gallo, Nathan Eovaldi, J.T. Realmuto, Mike Zunino and Gerrit Cole. Terry Francona and other coaches, umpire Chris Guccione, reporter Tom Verducci and Dodgers bullpen catcher Stephen Ciladi also participated.

Marlins Hosting Italian American Heritage Night on August 13

The Miami Marlins will host Italian American Heritage Night on August 13 to benefit the Italian American Baseball Foundation. Ticket packages include a limited-edition Italian Heritage Marlins T-shirt, with pickup beginning when gates open at 5:30 p.m. and continuing through the fourth inning.

Q&A: Tony Morante, Yankee Stadium Historian

Tony Morante spent six decades with the New York Yankees, progressing from usher and ticket-sales employee to director of Yankee Stadium Tours from 1985 through 2018. A member of the Italian American Baseball Foundation, he credits baseball’s teamwork and his Italian American heritage for shaping his life and work.

IABF Hosts Back on the Field Summer Baseball Tournament

The Throgs Neck Thunder 13u team won the second annual 14u Back on the Field Classic. The Italian American Baseball Foundation again sponsored the tournament with Van Nest Tournaments, supporting its mission to develop youth baseball in the United States and Italy.

IABF Sponsors Juan Romero Baseball Camp

The Italian American Baseball Foundation sponsored Juan Romero’s All Skills Baseball Camp in Florida, helping provide scholarships for local youth baseball players while supporting the annual fundamentals-focused camp. IABF officer Mark Cardillo served as an instructor and emphasized developing baseball and life skills in local communities.