On Saturday, April 18, at 5:30 PM, something bigger than baseball is happening.
Why This Night Matters
For nearly four decades, Dante Benedetti was known across San Francisco as “Mr. Baseball.” As the longtime coach at the University of San Francisco, he shaped far more than winning teams; he shaped lives. Grew up in North Beach, San Francisco, playing baseball with Joe DiMaggio.
On neighborhood fields and high school diamonds, Benedetti did work that does not make headlines. He coached with purpose. He mentored with conviction. He believed that when a young person is given structure, standards, and someone who refuses to give up on them, their future changes. His kindness, and yes, his occasional firm hand, guided countless boys away from trouble and toward responsibility. Today, “Dante’s boys” are police officers, doctors, teachers, coaches, business leaders, and mentors themselves. His impact lives on in the very fabric of our community.
Continuing the Legacy
The Dante’s Baseball Foundation carries that mission forward.
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Removing financial barriers so every child has a chance to play
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Funding equipment, uniforms, and field improvements
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Supporting mentorship programs that build resilience and leadership
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Strengthening school and community-based baseball across the region
- Giving direct financial support and college scholarships
More than $1.2 million has been raised. More than 50,000 young people have been impacted. Read more about Dante’s Baseball Foundation here!
20th Annual Dante Benedetti Baseball Classic at Oracle Park
Saturday, April 18 — 5:30 PM sharp. Festivities start right on time, and the first pitch follows soon after.
Buy Your Ticket Here!
