Trending Now - Italy's Prospects Shine With Home Runs in WBC Victory

WHO:

Team Italy, manager Francisco Cervelli, captain Vinnie Pasquantino, Brewers No. 6 prospect Andrew Fischer, Angels catching prospect J.J. D'Orazio, Great Britain, Brazil, Miles Mastrobuoni, Sam Antonacci, Dominic Canzone, Dante Nori, Harry Ford, Greg Weissert, Sam Aldegheri, Zach Dezenzo, Jac Caglianone, Dante Bichette Jr.

WHAT:

Team Italy won against Great Britain with a score of 7-4 in the World Baseball Classic.

Italy hit back-to-back home runs by Andrew Fischer and J.J. D'Orazio.

Italy's record in the tournament is 2-0, having also defeated Brazil 8-0.

Sam Aldegheri pitched 4 2/3 scoreless innings against Brazil, allowing one hit and striking out eight batters.

Dante Nori hit two home runs in the game against Brazil.

Italy has the most home runs of any team in its pool with five home runs across two games.

Italy's next games are against the United States on March 10th at 9 p.m. ET and Mexico on March 11th at 7 p.m. ET.

WHERE:

Daikin Park, Houston, Texas.

WHEN:

The game against Great Britain took place on March 8th, 2026.

The game against Brazil occurred on March 7th, 2026.

Italy's next game against the United States is scheduled for March 10th, 2026, at 9 p.m. ET.

Italy's next game against Mexico is scheduled for March 11th, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET.

WHY:

The espresso machine tradition in the dugout is meant to celebrate home runs and foster team spirit.

Manager Francisco Cervelli aims to "put Italy on the map" as a baseball country.

HOW:

Team Italy celebrates home runs by taking espresso shots from a machine in the dugout, with Vinnie Pasquantino serving the espresso and giving kisses on the cheeks to the players who hit home runs.

Aldegheri prepared for his start by managing his emotions and focusing on the game, reminding himself to "be you."

(UPDATED March 9, 2026 01:22 UTC)

Team Italy secured a victory against Great Britain with a score of 7 to 4 in the World Baseball Classic on March 8, showcasing impressive performances, including back-to-back home runs from Andrew Fischer and J.J. D'Orazio. With this win, Italy improved its tournament record to 2-0, having previously defeated Brazil 8 to 0, and they currently lead their pool with five home runs across two games. Looking ahead, Italy's next match is against the United States on March 10 at 9 p.m. ET, followed by a game against Mexico on March 11 at 7 p.m. ET.