The semi-finalist in the Italian Baseball League (IBL) and European Cup Final Four participant MONTEPASCHI GROSSETO introduced this week a new manager and a new pitching coach. Mario Labastidas takes over as new skipper for the 2007 champion. The 47-year-old Venezuelan is working in Italy as a coach and manager of Modena since twelve years. He replaces Mauro Mazzotti, who was fired during the playoff round of the IBL this summer.
Labastidas will be joined by former hurler Gilberto Clisanchez as the new pitching coach for the club. He is 40 years old and comes also from Venezuela. The coaching staff will be rounded up by bench coach Paolo Minozzi, first base coach Piergiorgio Sonnini and third base coach Alessandro Cipriani.