World Baseball Network is taking a way too early look at what some squads could look like for the World Baseball Classic (WBC). Today, we look at what a potential lineup could look like for Italy.
Italy will have a plethora of options when it comes to position players. Many fans expect to see Anthony Volpe leading Italy as the team’s starting shortstop. Brandon Nimmo represented Italy in 2017, so it would be intriguing to see him make a second appearance in the World Baseball Classic. Other Italians joining the starting lineup or bench could be Anthony Rizzo, Michael Conforto, Cavan Biggio, Vinny Capra, David Fletcher, Dominic Fletcher, Alberto Mineo, and Joey Loperfido.
The same situation applies to Italy’s potential starting rotation. It would be great to see Italian-born left-handed pitcher Samuel Aldegheri get the first start for Italy. Aldegheri became the first Italian MLB pitcher in 2024. Other candidates looking to join Aldegheri in Italy’s rotation could be Alessandro Ercolani, Ryan Castellani, David Festa, Andre Pallante, Joey Lucchesi, and Slade Cecconi.
As for their bullpen, Vinny Nittoli could be a favorite to find opportunities as Italy’s closer. Nittoli only appeared in nine games in 2024 between the Athletics and Orioles, going 0-1 with a 1.50 ERA and eight strikeouts in 12 innings. Other bullpen options include Matteo Bocchi, Tiago Da Silva, Matt Festa, Joe La Sorsa, Nicolo Pinazzi, Claudio Scotti, Adam Ottavino, and Nick Vespi.
The 2026 World Baseball Classic will begin on March 5 and run until March 17. Italy will be in Pool B, where it will face the United States, Mexico, and Great Britain. Pool B will be played at Daikin Park in Houston, Texas.
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