Currently at Colorado Rockies spring training camp in Scottsdale, Arizona as a non-roster invitee after re-signing a minor league contract in December, Team Italy catcher and designated hitter Drew Butera is competing against 24-year-old Dom Nuñez for an opening day roster spot to serve as the backup to catcher Tony Wolters.
Colorado Rockies manager Bud Black understands what Drew Butera brings to the team. Catching the final out of the 2015 World Series to give the Kansas City Royals the championship title in addition to catching two no-hitters during his 10-year MLB career, the proud Italian American provides leadership and mentorship to the younger players. The Rockies skipper said, “You know when you see him, you feel good about him behind the plate. He’s a good defender, has got a good head on his shoulders, he’s got a personality that you know around the clubhouse, in the dugout, during the game is one of confidence.”
Drew Butera made his first 2020 spring training appearance on February 24 when he grounded out as pinch hitter late in a game against the Cleveland Indians. He returned the following day as the starting catcher to lead the Colorado Rockies to a 12-6 win over the Chicago Cubs. Playing against Team Italy’s Robel Garcia at first base and Daniel Descalso at third base, Drew Butera hit a two-run double off Jon Lester in the top of the second inning and later walked for a productive 1-for-2 day at the plate.
Drew Butera played for Team Italy in the 2013 and 2017 World Baseball Classics. He is an avid supporter of the and recently attended the fourth annual IABF Gala Dinner in Brooklyn on December 4, 2019. Forza #Italia!
