After the game, Tommy Lasorda grabbed Italy’s manager, Silvano Ambrosioni. Speaking with his best Italian accent, Lasorda said, “Hey Paesano, why don’t you play like that all the time?”
Both men laughed. Lasorda’s, though, was mixed with a touch of relief.
Italy, not exactly known for its baseball, took the United States to the limit before losing 4-2 Friday. Italian relief pitcher Jason Simontacchi gave Lasorda a gift on his 73rd birthday.
With the two on, two out in a 2-2 game in the eighth inning, Mike Kinkade hit a comebacker to Simontacchi. The pitcher threw the ball away, allowing the winning runs to score.
“My cleat stuck in the dirt,” Simontacchi said.
The United States raised its record to 5-0. With two preliminary games remaining, including a showdown with Cuba on Saturday, the team has assured itself a spot in Tuesday’s semifinals.
That is hardly surprising. What is surprising is the parity that exists in international baseball. Friday’s game was another example.
Italy had no business being in the game with the U.S., but the team hung around. The U.S. also had tough games with Japan and Korea. Meanwhile, the Netherlands pulled the upset of the tournament in handing Cuba its first defeat in Olympic competition after 21 straight wins.
More Top Picks Best Solar Chargers For Camping
“To beat Italy is special,” Lasorda said. “To do it on my birthday made it extra special. Then to go 5-0 makes it even more special. I’ve had 73 birthdays, and I’ll remember this one for a long time.”