Teams
U. Bologna
San Marino
Cariparma
Nettuno City
Rimini
Godo Knights
Pad. Tommasin
Grosseto
Macerata
Collecchio
Nuova Citta Nettuno
Novara
Bbc Grosseto
Padule Sesto F.
Grizzlies Torino 48
SSD Modena BC
Black Panthers
Senago Milano United BC
B.c. Castenaso
Cagliari BC Asd
Potocco Rangers Redipuglia
Reggio Emilia
Rovigo
Wikipedia - Italian Baseball League
The Italian Baseball League (IBL, Italian: Campionato italiano di baseball), officially known as the Serie A (Italian pronunciation: [ˈsɛːrje ˈa]), is the top-level baseball league in Italy. Founded in 1948, it is governed by the Italian Baseball & Softball Federation (FIBS), which has its headquarters in Rome.
Many of the teams are based in the northern Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, which has historically been the hotbed of baseball in the country; a team from the Republic of San Marino also plays in Serie A.
Like most professional sports leagues in Europe, and unlike professional baseball leagues in North America and Asia, the IBL uses a promotion and relegation system; the bottom five clubs are relegated to the Serie B minor league. Winners of the league are awarded a scudetto, and earn the right to represent Italy in the European Champions Cup.
History
Until 2010, the IBL featured a promotion-and-relegation league format that demoted the last place finisher to the minor leagues (Series A2), while the Serie A2 (baseball) champion would be promoted into the IBL. This was changed in late 2009, when FIBS approved the decision to introduce a fixed-team franchise format (similar to that found in Major League Baseball) starting with the 2010 season.
However, in 2018, the promotion-and-relegation system was reintroduced.
In 2021, the Italian Baseball League was rebranded as Serie A, bringing together the previous eight-team Serie A1 and the second-tier Serie A2. The new league was structured into 33 participating teams in 8 divisions, or gironi (lit. "groups"). The 8 gironi winners compete for the league championship (the scudetto), while the remaining 25 will fight to avoid being among the five relegated to Serie B. In 2023, the league size was reduced to 30 teams, divided into five gironi; the top two in each group of the first phase (prima fase) advance to the poule scudetto (and then to the playoffs), while those not qualified fight to avoid relegation.
The tournament takes place in various cities throughout Italy, with each venue offering a unique and vibrant atmosphere for players and spectators alike. From the bustling streets of Rome to the picturesque landscapes of Florence, the Italian Baseball League provides an opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Italy while enjoying the excitement of the game.
The tournament features a series of intense and competitive matches, where teams battle it out on the field to demonstrate their skills, strategy, and teamwork. The players showcase their exceptional athleticism, precision pitching, powerful hitting, and agile fielding, captivating the audience with their remarkable performances.
The Italian Baseball League is known for its high level of competition and the passion that surrounds the sport in Italy. The teams participating in the tournament are composed of talented athletes who have honed their skills through years of training and dedication. The players' commitment to the game is evident in their unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of victory.
Spectators attending the Italian Baseball League can expect an electrifying atmosphere, with enthusiastic fans cheering on their favorite teams and creating an incredible ambiance. The tournament provides an opportunity for baseball enthusiasts to come together, share their love for the sport, and witness some of the most exciting moments in Italian baseball history.
Whether you are a die-hard baseball fan or simply looking for an exhilarating sporting event to attend, the Italian Baseball League promises an unforgettable experience. With its combination of top-tier talent, stunning venues, and passionate fans, this tournament is a must-see for anyone seeking a thrilling and immersive baseball experience in Italy.