When people hear the name Mike Piazza, they think of towering home runs, All-Star appearances, and a Hall of Fame career that defied every expectation. But around here, we know him a little differently. At our camp, Mike isn’t just a baseball legend; he’s a leader, a teacher, and part of the family.
Mike’s journey to the top is one of the most inspiring in the game. Drafted in the 62nd round, as a long shot, he fought his way through the minors with grit and determination. He became the National League Rookie of the Year in 1993 and went on to hit 427 career home runs, including the most by a catcher in MLB history. He earned 12 All-Star selections, countless accolades, and in 2016, a well-deserved spot in Cooperstown.
But what makes Mike special isn’t just what he did, it’s how he did it. And that’s exactly what he brings to this camp.
Mike plays an active role from start to finish: leading hitting clinics, mentoring players, and sharing stories that only someone who’s been to the very top can tell. But what really sets him apart is his connection to the campers. He’s approachable, engaged, and genuinely passionate about helping kids grow; not just as players, but as people.
His Italian roots run deep, and he’s spent years working to grow the game overseas; managing the Italian National Team, promoting youth development, and now, helping us build something truly special in Rome and Anzio-Nettuno. This camp isn’t just a baseball event; it’s a bridge between cultures, and Mike is right at the center of it.
Having Mike here is more than an honor. It’s a reminder that even the biggest names in the sport started somewhere. And for every camper who steps on the field this week, Mike Piazza is living proof of what’s possible.
