10th Anniversary IABF Gala

DECEMBER 10, 2026 @ 6:30 PM
IABF NEWS

Italian American Heritage

Anthony Rizzo, Joey Gallo Traded to Yankees

In a notable Italian American moment, the New York Yankees acquired Anthony Rizzo and Joey Gallo at the trade deadline. Both players embraced the Bronx environment, while Gallo said the team’s Italian fan base and an Italian flag at the stadium made him proud of their heritage and baseball success.

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.

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.

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.

Tony LaRussa Passes John McGraw for Second on All-Time Manager Wins List

Tony La Russa became baseball’s second-winningest manager when the Chicago White Sox defeated their opponent on June 6, giving him 2,764 victories and surpassing John McGraw. After returning from retirement, the Hall of Fame manager was leading the White Sox in the AL Central.

Tom Verducci Named First Recipient of Italian American Baseball Foundation Media Award

Tom Verducci was named the first recipient of the Italian American Baseball Foundation Media Award. The longtime Sports Illustrated writer and Fox Sports and MLB Network analyst will be honored at the IABF Awards Gala in Brooklyn, New York, in December.

Joe Musgrove Channels Italian American Heritage During Padres First No-Hitter

Joe Musgrove wore his Italian cornicello while throwing the first no-hitter in Padres history. He has worn the gold Italian horn pendant since receiving it from his family, honoring a tradition believed to protect against the evil eye and reflecting his Italian heritage.