How Italy became the darlings (and contenders, too) of the World Baseball Classic

With espresso shots, kisses on the cheek, and Andrea Bocelli singalongs, Team Italy has charmed at the World Baseball Classic. But their mission is more ambitious: Turn Italy into a bona fide baseball factory.

With espresso shots, kisses on the cheek and Andrea Bocelli singalongs, Team Italy has charmed the baseball world. But their mission is more ambitious: Turn Italy into a bona fide baseball factory.

(Image credit: Alex Slitz)