Kansas City Royals’ star Vinnie Pasquantino talks about rising Team Italy roster as his grandfather’s excitement sparks fan reactions

Kansas City Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino is preparing for another World Baseball Classic with Team Italy, and the conversation around the team has already started drawing attention among baseball fans. While Pasquantino continues his Spring Training schedule with the Royals, discussions online have quickly shifted toward the Italian national team and the players who will represent the country in the upcoming global tournament.

As preparations continue, fans have been discussing not only the team’s young talent but also the pride players feel while representing their family heritage. Pasquantino recently spoke about the roster and the excitement surrounding the group, and a small personal moment about his grandfather added a warm and relatable touch that many baseball followers appreciated online.

Team Italy prepares for the World Baseball Classic with promising young players and experienced leaders

Team Italy recently took the field at Sloan Park for an exhibition game against the Chicago Cubs as part of its preparation for the tournament. The Cubs featured a competitive lineup with 2025 National League Rookie of the Year runner up Cade Horton on the mound, offering the Italian squad a valuable test before pool play begins.

Team manager Francisco Cervelli believes the roster’s depth and talent could help the group make a strong impression on the international stage.

“To make the roster is very challenging,” Team Italy manager Francisco Cervelli said. “The group is talented. We have prospects. We’ve got people who are probably going to be superstars in the future. This tournament is a nice window for them to show the world how they play.”

Pasquantino pointed to several young players who could attract attention during the tournament. The group includes Royals power hitting outfielder Jac Caglianone, White Sox prospect Sam Antonacci, Brewers third baseman Andrew Fischer, Phillies outfield prospect Dante Nori and Mets outfielder Nick Morabito.

“I feel old,” Pasquantino quipped. “The hope is that I can continue to play in Classics until they kick me out of this game. But some of the young talent that we have is incredible. It’s an honor to be around these guys -- hopefully, some of the young superstars in the game -- and just try to be there for them for whatever they need.”

Pasquantino shares a funny story about his grandfather’s excitement for Team Italy

Pasquantino joked that while he has been busy playing games for the Royals this Spring Training, his grandfather Denny has been far more focused on Team Italy and the World Baseball Classic. “My grandfather won’t shut up asking me about Italy,” Pasquantino said with a laugh. “He thinks we’re in Italy.” The lighthearted comment quickly caught attention among baseball fans on social media.

Italy has gradually become more competitive in the World Baseball Classic over the years. The team reached the second round in 2013 and advanced to the quarterfinals during the 2023 tournament before eventually being eliminated by champion Japan.

For Pasquantino and several teammates, the tournament is also an opportunity to celebrate family roots and heritage. “A few years ago, we took a trip out there [to Italy]. I was able to see where my family’s from,” Pasquantino said. “Drank a lot of wine. Did what Italians do. It’s super special. And [special] being around all these guys, too, who are also learning their heritage.”

As the tournament approaches, fans continue to discuss Italy’s promising roster and the possibility that the team could once again deliver an unexpected run on baseball’s global stage. Pasquantino’s lighthearted story about his grandfather only added another memorable moment to the buildup.


Get the latest ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 updates, including the full schedule, teams, live scores, points table, and key series stats such as top run-scorers and wicket-takers.