Tony Balsamo
American baseball player (1936–2026)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Anthony Alred Balsamo (July 21, 1936 – March 12, 2026) was an American Major League Baseball player,[1] who pitched one season for the Chicago Cubs.
| Tony Balsamo | |
|---|---|
| Pitcher | |
| Born: July 21, 1936 New York City, U.S. | |
| Died: March 12, 2026 (aged 89) Holbrook, New York, U.S. | |
Batted: Right Threw: Right | |
| MLB debut | |
| April 14, 1962, for the Chicago Cubs | |
| Last MLB appearance | |
| June 26, 1962, for the Chicago Cubs | |
| MLB statistics | |
| Win–loss record | 0–1 |
| Earned run average | 6.44 |
| Strikeouts | 27 |
| Stats at Baseball Reference | |
| Teams | |
College career
Balsamo played college baseball for the Fordham University Rams. As a senior co-captain, he had a 4–2 record and 2.17 ERA.[2]
Professional career
In 1959, the Chicago Cubs signed Balsamo as a free agent. He spent three seasons in the minors, before being promoted to the Cubs ahead of the 1962 season.[2] He made his MLB debut on April 14, 1962, pitching two scoreless innings. He pitched in 291⁄3 innings and recorded a 0–1 record with a 6.44 ERA over the first three months of the season, but was optioned to the AA San Antonio Missions at the end of June.[2] Balsamo never appeared in a game the Cubs won.[3] He only played in one big league season.
Personal life
Balsamo owned Donato's Restaurant in Rockville Centre, New York, from 1977–2002.[4]
Death
Balsamo died in Holbrook, New York, on March 12, 2026, at the age of 89.[1]
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