The Italian national baseball team’s dugout ritual of sharing espresso drinks following home runs during the 2023 World Baseball Classic has been commercialized as a limited-edition coffee blend called Homerun Espresso, developed jointly by Bloom Specialty Coffee and the Italian Baseball Softball Federation (FIBS).
What started as an impromptu celebration during international play has now entered the consumer market. The collaboration seeks to bridge traditional Italian coffee culture with specialty coffee demographics, using the national baseball team’s platform to reach consumers unfamiliar with artisanal roasts.
From 2023 World Baseball Classic Dugout to Commercial Blend
During the 2023 World Baseball Classic, Italian players stepped back into the dugout after hitting home runs to pass around shots of espresso. The spontaneous habit quickly gained viral traction among international media and tournament fans, drawing attention to the squad.
Alberto Polojac, founder of Bloom Specialty Coffee, noted that adapting the viral habit into a commercial product felt like a natural progression. The project aims to step outside conventional coffee distribution channels and engage buyers who might otherwise overlook specialty offerings.
FIBS President Marco Mazzieri stated that the coffee tradition originated from discussions prior to the tournament involving players Francisco Cervelli and Vinnie Pasquantino, who wanted to establish a distinct team identity. Mazzieri added that such partnerships help promote the sport and introduce new supporters to baseball.
Qualifying Tournament Presence in Barcelona
The partnership formalised its athletic integration during the Premier12 2027 qualifying tournament held in Barcelona from October 9 to October 11. Bloom Specialty Coffee accompanied the team during the three-day competition.
Italy faced Colombia, Spain, and Germany during the group stage. Finishing second in the standings behind Spain, the Azzurri secured their qualification berth for the upcoming Premier12 tournament.
The Path Toward the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games
Securing a spot in the Premier12 tournament carries significant implications for Italy’s Olympic ambitions. The 2027 Premier12 event will serve as a direct qualification pathway, awarding a berth at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games to the highest-finishing national team from Europe or Oceania.
The limited-edition Homerun Espresso blend is currently available for purchase through the official Bloom Specialty Coffee online store, with direct access provided via a dedicated landing page on the FIBS website.
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