In an article on Baseball.it Marco Mazzieri confirms that he is done as manager of the Italian National Team after the conclusion of the 2017 World Baseball Classic in March. The 55-year-old Grosseto native will end his coaching career at the end of the tournament.
He was at the helm for more than ten years, taking over the head coach position with Italy after the European Championship in Barcelona. Italy won two European Championships during his term and remained in the field of guaranteed teams for the World Baseball Classic.
After taking some time off Mazzieri would like to re-start the enthusiasm for baseball in his home town Grosseto. But not as a coach, but instead with a group of reliable people.
Meanwhile Mazzieri also confirmed in the article that several top MLB stars have declined to play for Italy in the WBC or were blocked by their clubs including Anthony Rizzo, Michael Conforto, Rick Porcello (who also had an invite from Team USA), Jake Odorizzi, Jason Grilli, Joe Biagini and Adam Ottavino. Brandon Nimmo, Francisco Cervelli, Drew Butera, Johnny Giavottella, Daniel Descaslo, Chris Colabello, Pat Venditte and Chris Denorfia already have said yes. Mike Napoli has to wait until to sign with a new organization.
Final rosters have to be submitted to Major League Baseball by February 6.