Baltimore Orioles first baseman and Italian American Trey Mancini has been an inspiration. After battling cancer, he returned to the field in 2021 and picked up where he left off. His appearance in the Major League Baseball Home Run Derby and winning of the American League Comeback Player of the Year Award made it a season to remember. 

Mancini has one more honor to receive this year when he is presented with the Tommy Lasorda Award by the Italian American Baseball Foundation at the organization’s gala on December 2 in Brooklyn. 

“It is our honor and privilege to recognize Trey for his determination and serving as the ultimate example of perseverance,” said Joe Quagliano, President and Founder of the IABF. “We admire his loyalty to our Italian American heritage and culture and look forward to celebrating with Trey and his family later this year.” 

Joining Mancini on the honoree list is Nationals GM Mike Rizzo, who was named IABF Executive of the Year, longtime Sports Illustrated writer Tom Verducci, who will receive the first IABF Media Award, Yankees top prospect Anthony Volpe, who is the first IABF Future Star Award honoree and longtime college coach Dom Scala, the IABF Achievement Award honoree. 

The gala is being held at Giando on the Water in Brooklyn. There is a star studded list of invited guests including John Franco, Brandon Nimmo, Aaron Civale, Anthony Iapoce, Mike Pagliarulo, Jason Grilli, Lee Mazzilli, and many other surprise VIPs. 

Attendees will be treated to introductory messages from Bob Costas and Jon Morosi. 

Mets radio broadcaster Wayne Randazzo will be the host for the evening. 

Tickets, journal ads and sponsorships are available at www.iabf.foundation/2021-iabf-gala/