Marco Grifantini pitched at Feather River CC and UC Davis. Marco pitches for Parma in the Italian Baseball League. Marco, thanks for taking the time. Please tell us more about yourself.
I’m from Redding California; I enjoy playing baseball, being outdoors, fishing, camping, friends and obviously life.
Wow! Italy stunned a few people in the 2013 WBC. What was your experience like playing for Team Italia?
This year is just special, it’s a great core group of guys who have played together for a while, and all the big league and minor league guys who were added have been awesome to work with. In this type of tournament it is important to be prepared and have good team chemistry, and everyone is close and has worked hard to be ready for the WBC.
What’s it like playing baseball in Italy? And how is it different from playing in the US?
I have never played in the US other than college ball. The Italian league is similar to college in that they practice during the week and play on the weekends. The season has much fewer games then in the minor or major leagues, 42 in regular season.
What’s it like playing for Marco Mazzieri? Not a lot of people in the USA have heard of him.
Marco has given me the opportunity to play for my relative’s country, I am forever grateful for him and all the coaches for the work they do with us and the trust they have in all their players. Bill Holmberg has been incredible in developing me from just a thrower into a pitcher. I appreciate everything all the coaches have done for their players and growing the sport of baseball in Italy.
Here in Oregon we love Tom Trebelhorn (he managed the Salem/Keizer Volcanoes) what’s it like having Treb on the coaching staff along with Mike Piazza.
The coaching staff has so much experience and all have been a pleasure to listen to and learn from. All the players try to absorb every bit of information that these guys have. Combined, the coaching staff has over a hundred years of major league experience, and they are all so supportive and never treat anyone with disrespect. It’s an honor just to be around these people.
What has the play of Italy in the 2013 WBC meant to the country?
I think that it is huge for the country of Italy as well as the future of baseball in Italy. Since soccer is the predominant sport in Italy it is hard to get people to understand baseball, let alone be passionate about the game. By doing well in this tournament hopefully we can show the world that Italy isn’t just a soccer country and further develop the sport and create interest for the younger generations.
Who’s the best player to come out of Italy?
The people who have had the most success as true born Italians are Alex Liddi and Alex Maestri, but there are many great players in the Italian league who have never played in the United States.
Who were your influences growing up?
My parents have taught me the importance of a hard work ethic, and to be the best person that i can be. My older brother has basically been my best friend and helped me whenever i needed anything and supported me in every situation. Chipper Jones was my favorite player.
What has been your biggest moment playing in Italy?
Well now it is being able to play in this tournament, it was one of my goals when going to the Italian Baseball League. I think my most memorable moment was in 2010 closing the final game in the European Championship against Holland to win the gold. Being part of the celebration was surreal, and knowing that I was a part of a team that broke an 11 year dry spell in the EC was special for the Society and for me.
Give me your top 5 albums of all time.
5) Siamese Dream-Smashing Pumpkins,
4) The Joshua Tree-U2,
3) Break the Cycle-Staind,
2) Minutes to Midnight-Linkin Park,
1) Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Greatest Hits album
How is baseball perceived in Italy?
Baseball isn’t heavily followed, but the people who do like the game are very passionate fans. They will make up cheers almost like in a soccer stadium, and are very knowledgeable about the game. In general people just don’t understand the rules and prefer soccer.
Marco, congrats on making it to the second round of the WBC. We wish you luck.
Thank you! Keep up the good feelings and support, and we hope to continue to perform at out highest levels, and make it to the final round!