The baseball community is mourning the loss of Anthony “Tony” Balsamo, a right-handed pitcher whose life was a rich tapestry of professional sports, family devotion, and community service. He passed away on March 12, 2026, in Holbrook, New York, at the age of 89.
Brooklyn Roots and Fordham Success
Born in Brooklyn on July 21, 1936, Balsamo’s baseball journey began on the legendary Flatbush sandlots. He attended Erasmus Hall High School, the same institution that produced greats like Sid Luckman and Waite Hoyt. His talent on the mound earned him a spot at Fordham University, where he graduated in 1957. His collegiate success was the springboard that launched his professional career.
A Seat in the Dugout with Legends
Balsamo’s dream of reaching the major leagues was realized in 1962 with the Chicago Cubs. His time in Chicago coincided with a historic era for the franchise, most notably the 1962 season when Buck O'Neil became the first African American coach in MLB history.
In reflections on his career, Balsamo spoke of O'Neil with immense reverence, calling him the ultimate "gentleman" and a mentor who helped everyone, regardless of their status. He often noted O'Neil’s infectious positivity and "fabulous personality," and he remained a vocal advocate for O'Neil’s legacy throughout his life.
A Homecoming at the Polo Grounds
One of the most memorable moments in Balsamo’s career was his "homecoming" to New York on May 15, 1962. Pitching for the Cubs against the newly formed New York Mets, Balsamo found himself on the mound in the legendary Polo Grounds, just a few miles from where he grew up in Flatbush.
It was a grueling 13-inning marathon that lasted nearly five hours. Balsamo entered the game in the 12th inning of a 5-5 tie, facing off against a Mets lineup that included original favorites like Frank Thomas and Gus Bell. Though he struck out one and battled through a high-pressure environment, the Mets managed to scratch out the winning run in the bottom of the 13th, handing Balsamo a tough-luck loss. The loss was his only major league decision.
A Life of Service and Business on Long Island
Beyond the diamond, Tony was a successful entrepreneur and a dedicated neighbor. For 25 years (1977–2002), he was the proud owner of Donato's Restaurant in Rockville Centre, where his storytelling and uplifting smile became as much a draw as the food.
He was also deeply involved in his community, becoming a familiar face at the Firefighter's Charitable Foundation Dinners in Long Island.
A Devoted Family Man
The year 1962 was a banner year for Tony—not just for his baseball career, but for his personal life, as he married his wife, Linda. Together, they raised their two sons in Howard Beach. Tony was a man who loved talking sports, playing golf, and, most of all, spending time with his family and his dogs, Lady and Elle.
He is survived by his two sons, Donato and Michael, his grandson Anthony, and a community that will deeply miss his great storytelling and infectious warmth.
Rest in peace, Tony. The next inning is yours.
Watch Tony Balsamo discuss his memories of the 1962 Cubs and Buck O'Neil below: