While the Italian Baseball and Softball Federation (FIBS) had announced that the Black Panthers Ronchi dei Legionari will be one of three new additions to the Italian Baseball League in 2013 besides Reggio Emilia and Mastiff Arezzo, the club had asked for a 48-hour window following the announcement to talk it over. It took a bit longer, but Ronchi dei Legionari eventually agreed and confirmed their participating in the IBL. Ten teams will be playing two games per week next year. Opening Day is set for April 6.