10th Anniversary IABF Gala

DECEMBER 10, 2026 @ 6:30 PM
IABF NEWS

MLB

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.

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.

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.

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.

Trey Mancini to Receive IABF Tommy Lasorda Award

Trey Mancini will receive the Italian American Baseball Foundation’s Tommy Lasorda Award after returning to the Baltimore Orioles in 2021 following treatment for stage 3 colon cancer. The honor recognizes his perseverance, baseball achievements, and pride in Italian American heritage at the IABF’s December gala in Brooklyn.

All-Star Jake Odorizzi Signs Two Year Deal with Astros

All-Star Jake Odorizzi Signs Two Year Deal with Astros. All-star pitcher and Italian American Jake Odorizzi signs a two-year deal with the Houston Astros. He played three seasons for the Twins, and was 22-18 with a 4.11 ERA. The article centers on All-Star Jake Odorizzi Signs Two Year Deal with Astros and presents the available facts.