Angel Zerpa and Team Italy’s Cinderella Run in the World Baseball Classic
HOUSTON — A unique and captivating reality unfolded at Daikin Park, as Team Italy’s improbable journey in the World Baseball Classic captured the hearts of fans both stateside and across the Atlantic. In Italy, locals gathered not just to discuss “calcio” (soccer) over espressos, but to passionately follow their national baseball team, a squad exceeding all expectations and igniting a newfound love for the sport.
Despite a tense eighth inning, Team Italy secured an 8-6 quarterfinals victory over Puerto Rico, reaching the semifinals for the first time in World Baseball Classic history. The excitement reverberated throughout Italy, where the team’s success brought baseball to the forefront of national attention.
A Manager’s Vision and a Team’s Pride
“I heard that after the last out, the people there were screaming in Italian, and it was amazing,” said manager Francisco Cervelli, who moved to Italy last year and established a baseball academy in Tuscany. He envisions a future where baseball takes root among young Italian athletes, consistently producing Major League players.
While the current roster features primarily American-born players of Italian descent, the team’s spirit and connection to their heritage are undeniable. Players like third baseman Andrew Fischer, proudly displaying a Frank Sinatra tattoo, embody the blend of American upbringing and Italian roots.
Representing Heritage and Inspiring a Nation
Team captain Vinnie Pasquantino eloquently expressed the pride of representing Italy, stating, “I know there’s a lot of people that are upset that we represent Italy, being Italian-American, but I take so much pride in it because it’s my roots. My family came over for a better life to America, and I honestly don’t have any issue representing those members of my family.” He emphasized the opportunity to learn about their history and perform for a nation where baseball is still developing.
A Thrilling Victory Over Puerto Rico
The game against Puerto Rico was a rollercoaster of emotions. Willi Castro’s leadoff home run ignited the Puerto Rican crowd, but Italy responded swiftly in the bottom of the first, scoring four runs and chasing Seth Lugo from the game. Pasquantino, Dominic Canzone, and Jac Caglianone each drove in a run, setting the tone for the game.
Italy continued to build their lead in the fourth inning, capitalizing on a rare stolen base by Pasquantino (“Espresso make me run fast,” he joked) and a two-run double by Fischer. By the end of the inning, Italy held an 8-2 advantage.
Puerto Rico mounted a late rally in the eighth, loading the bases and scoring four runs, but Italy’s early lead proved insurmountable. The final score stood at 8-6, securing Italy’s place in the semifinals.
“Baseball Night in Italy”
Cervelli aptly described the event as “Baseball Night in Italy,” noting that the early start time in Texas allowed fans back home to enjoy the game during their evening. This tournament is poised to inspire a new generation of Italian baseball players and expand the sport’s reach globally.
“After this spectacle that they’re displaying, I know a lot of people are going to want to play for this organization,” Cervelli said. “That’s what we want. This tournament should be to help us find players that will want to play for each country.”
Team Italy’s remarkable run has not only captivated a nation but has also demonstrated the unifying power of baseball. They’ve become the talk of the tournament, earning the adoration of new fans and proving that anything is possible in the World Baseball Classic. As Pasquantino noted, “I mean, there was baseball being played at bistros and cafes in Italy tonight over there… That doesn’t happen.”
You can stay up-to-date on all things MLB by signing up for the MLB Morning Lineup.
