Team Italy Outfielders in the 2023 World Baseball Classic
BEN DELUZIO
Ben DeLuzio is a solid outfielder who made his MLB debut with the St. Louis Cardinals on September 1, 2022 and subsequently made two appearances in the postseason. After signing as a free agent by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2016, he later played AAA ball with the Reno Aces in 2019 and 2021. Then the St. Louis Cardinals selected him in the 2021 MiLB Rule 5 Draft. He recently signed a minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs with hopes of landing an MLB roster spot.
SAL FRELICK
Sal Frelick will represent Team Italy at the 2023 WBC as one of the starting outfielders. Born and raised in Boston, the 22-year-old is among the top 30 MLB prospects in addition to being the Milwaukee Brewers’ top prospect. A first round pick in the 2021 draft, Sal is a reliable lefty who hit .331 with 28 doubles, six triples, 11 HR and 59 RBI during the 2022 season between his stints in High-A, Double-A and Triple-A. He was named 2022 MiLB All-Star by the Milwaukee Brewers.
DOMINIC FLETCHER
Brother to MLB veteran David Fletcher, Dominic Fletcher was selected by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the second round of the 2019 draft and most recently played for the Triple-A Reno Aces in 2022 when he hit 301/.368/.452 with 29 doubles, eight triples and five HR and in 101 games played. A highly-touted collegiate all-star out of the University of Arkansas, he played in the 2018 College World Series. Dominic was later named 2019 and 2021 MiLB Organization All-Star by the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Forza #Italia!
by Roberto Angotti
