10th Anniversary IABF Gala

DECEMBER 10, 2026 @ 6:30 PM
IABF NEWS

Italian American

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.

IABF Hosts Summer Clinic with Long Island Baseball

The Italian American Baseball Foundation co-hosted a four-day summer baseball clinic with Long Island Baseball on Long Island in July 2021. Former major leaguers Frank Catalanotto, Mike Pagliarulo and Chris Colabello served as guest instructors, teaching baseball fundamentals to more than 50 campers.

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.

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.

LSU’s Paul Mainieri Earns Career Win No. 1,500

LSU coach Paul Mainieri earned career win No. 1,500 when LSU defeated Texas A&M on May 21. He became the fifth coach in NCAA Division I Baseball history to reach 1,500 victories and win a national championship, ranking 11th all-time in NCAA baseball wins.

Italian American Mike Scioscia Named Team USA Manager

USA Baseball named Italian American Mike Scioscia manager of the 2021 Professional National Team. The three-time World Series champion as a player and manager aimed to lead Team USA to the Tokyo Olympic Games, where he hoped the team would win a gold medal.

Anthony Causi Honored with Yankees Plaque Tribute

Anthony Causi, a New York Post photographer who died from COVID-19 complications, was honored with a plaque at Yankee Stadium. Installed in the first base photowell, the dedication recognized his passionate talent, extraordinary excellence, uncommon care, and lasting contribution through his images; his family attended the ceremony.