Cervelli Sets Ambitious Tone for Italy at World Baseball Classic

February 25, 2026

The Italian national baseball team held its first online press conference on February 25, 2026, as preparations ramp up for the World Baseball Classic 2026. Manager Francisco Cervelli and team captain Alberto Mineo addressed the media, outlining their vision for the tournament.

Focus on Improvement, Not Replication

Cervelli emphasized a forward-thinking approach, stating the team’s goal is not simply to repeat past successes, but to continually improve. He articulated a clear message to the team: We must always think massive and the objective must still be to win: not to repeat ourselves, but to improve.

Challenges in Team Building

The manager acknowledged the complexities involved in assembling the final roster, particularly with players from Major League Baseball. He described the process as incredibly difficult: you first have to talk to players, agents, MLB, players association… Just to look and find a player you have to go through so many people… Once you have a team they tell you they can’t go… Always difficult, but it’s fun. Despite these hurdles, Cervelli expressed his passion for the role, stating But this has never been a job for me, it’s my passion and I do it with so much pride. I can’t wait.

Chemistry and Preparation in Phoenix

A key focus will be building team chemistry during Spring Training in Phoenix. Cervelli recognizes this as a significant challenge, noting The difficult part will be to amalgamate the group, to create the right chemistry in the four days in which we will be together in Spring Training in Phoenix, but for a manager This represents also the most fun part.

Developing Future Stars

Cervelli also expressed excitement about the young talent showcased at the Early Camp, hoping to see them become key players in future Classics. Here at the Early Camp there are young guys who I would like to become the protagonists of the Classics of the next few years, he stated.

Looking Ahead to the Olympics

The Italian team also has its sights set on a longer-term goal: participation in the Olympics. This ambition underscores the program’s commitment to sustained success.

Staff Announcements

The coaching staff supporting Cervelli includes Ron Wotus (bench coach), Allard Baird (first base coach), Lipso Nava (third base coach), Dave Righetti and Alessandro Masters (pitching coaches), and Sal Fasano (bullpen coach). Frank Menechino and Jorge Posada will lead the offensive department.

The team will convene in Phoenix on March 1st before heading to Houston for their tournament debut on March 6th.