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{{short description|American baseball player & coach}}
{{short description|American baseball player & coach (born 1971)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2024}}
{{Infobox baseball biography
{{Infobox baseball biography
| name = Sal Fasano
| name = Sal Fasano
Line 5: Line 6:
| width = 250
| width = 250
| caption = Fasano as [[Manager (baseball)|manager]] for the [[Lansing Lugnuts]] in {{By|2010}}.
| caption = Fasano as [[Manager (baseball)|manager]] for the [[Lansing Lugnuts]] in {{By|2010}}.
| team = Atlanta Braves
| team = Los Angeles Angels
| number = 57
| number =
| position = [[Catcher]] / [[Coach (baseball)|Coach]]
| position = [[Catcher]] / [[Coach (baseball)|Coach]]
| bats = Right
| bats = Right
| throws = Right
| throws = Right
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1971|8|10}}
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1971|8|10}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago, Illinois]]
| birth_place = [[Chicago, Illinois]], U.S.
| debutleague = MLB
| debutleague = MLB
| debutdate = April 3
| debutdate = April 3
Line 28: Line 29:
| stat3value = 140
| stat3value = 140
| teams =
| teams =
;As player
* [[Kansas City Royals]] ({{mlby|1996}}–{{mlby|1999}})
* [[Kansas City Royals]] ({{mlby|1996}}–{{mlby|1999}})
* [[Oakland Athletics]] ({{mlby|2000}}–{{mlby|2001}})
* [[Oakland Athletics]] ({{mlby|2000}}–{{mlby|2001}})
Line 38: Line 40:
* [[Toronto Blue Jays]] ({{mlby|2007}})
* [[Toronto Blue Jays]] ({{mlby|2007}})
* [[Cleveland Indians]] ({{mlby|2008}})
* [[Cleveland Indians]] ({{mlby|2008}})
'''As coach'''
;As coach
* [[Atlanta Braves]] ({{mlby|2018}}–present)
* [[Atlanta Braves]] ({{mlby|2018}}–{{mlby|2024}})
* [[Los Angeles Angels]] ({{mlby|2025}}–present)
|awards =
|awards =
*[[World Series]] champion ({{wsy| 2002, 2021}})
* [[World Series]] champion ({{wsy|2021}})
}}
}}


'''Salvatore Frank Fasano''' ({{IPAc-en|f|ə|ˈ|s|ɑː|n|oʊ}}; born August 10, 1971) is an American former [[professional baseball]] [[catcher]], who played for 9 different [[Major League Baseball]] (MLB) teams over his 11-year big league career. In 2021, he was a coach for the 2021 World Series Champions, the Atlanta Braves. In 2013, he became the Roving Catching Instructor for the [[Toronto Blue Jays]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mlb.mlb.com/team/front_office.jsp?c_id=tor|title=Front Office Directory|work=MLB.com|access-date=February 10, 2013|archive-date=February 1, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130201045021/http://mlb.mlb.com/team/front_office.jsp?c_id=tor|url-status=live}}</ref>
'''Salvatore Frank Fasano''' ({{IPAc-en|f|ə|ˈ|s|ɑː|n|oʊ}}; born August 10, 1971) is an American former [[professional baseball]] [[catcher]], who played for nine different [[Major League Baseball]] (MLB) teams over his 11–year big league career. Upon retiring as a player, he became a coach within the [[Toronto Blue Jays]] organization between 2010 and 2016. After coaching for a single season within the [[Los Angeles Angels]] minor league system, Fasano joined the major league coaching staff of the [[Atlanta Braves]]. He currently serves as the assistant pitching coach for the Angels.


[[Jeff Pearlman]] of [[ESPN.com]] said of Fasano: "When I think of Sal Fasano, however, I think of greatness. Not of [[Willie Mays]] or [[Ted Williams]] greatness, but of a uniquely excellent human being who, were class and decency the most valued standards of a career, would be the easiest Hall of Fame inductee of all time."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=pearlman/070406&sportCat=mlb|title=Pearlman: A guy we'll miss – ESPN Page 2|website=sports.espn.go.com|access-date=8 November 2017|archive-date=5 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905062618/http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=pearlman%2F070406&sportCat=mlb|url-status=live}}</ref>
[[Jeff Pearlman]] of [[ESPN.com]] said of Fasano: "When I think of Sal Fasano, however, I think of greatness. Not of [[Willie Mays]] or [[Ted Williams]] greatness, but of a uniquely excellent human being who, were class and decency the most valued standards of a career, would be the easiest Hall of Fame inductee of all time."<ref>{{cite web |last=Pearlman |first=Jeff |date=April 6, 2007 |title=Pearlman: A guy we'll miss – ESPN Page 2 |url=https://www.espn.com/espn/page2/story?page=pearlman/070406&sportCat=mlb |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905062618/http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=pearlman%2F070406&sportCat=mlb |archive-date=September 5, 2015 |access-date=November 8, 2017 |website=[[ESPN]]}}</ref>


==Professional career==
==Professional career==
===Kansas City Royals===
===Kansas City Royals===
After three seasons in the minor leagues, Fasano made his Major League debut on April 3, {{By|1996}}, for the Royals. He spent the next three seasons splitting catching duties with starter [[Mike Macfarlane]] and rising prospect [[Mike Sweeney]]. In {{By|1998}}, he established career highs in [[at bat]]s (216) and [[Run batted in|RBI]] (31). He also ranked second in the [[American League]] in HBPs with 16. In his first 4 seasons with the Royals, Fasano batted .219 with 20 home runs and 67 RBI.<ref name="BR">{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/fasansa01.shtml|title=Sal Fasano Statistics and History|work=[[Baseball-Reference.com]]|access-date=March 25, 2016|archive-date=March 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160321184609/http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/fasansa01.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref>
After three seasons in the minor leagues, Fasano made his Major League debut on April 3, {{By|1996}}, for the Royals. He finished the game 0-for-3 in a 7–1 loss to the [[Baltimore Orioles]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=April 3, 1996 |title=Kansas City Royals vs Baltimore Orioles Box Score: April 3, 1996 |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/BAL/BAL199604030.shtml |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Baseball Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> He spent the next three seasons splitting catching duties with starter [[Mike Macfarlane]] and rising prospect [[Mike Sweeney]]. In {{By|1998}}, he established career highs in [[at bat]]s (216) and [[runs batted in]] (RBIs) (31).<ref name="BR" /> He also ranked second in the [[American League]] in HBPs with 16.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1998 American League Batting Leaders |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/leagues/AL/1998-batting-leaders.shtml |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Baseball Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> In his first four seasons with the Royals, Fasano batted .219 with 20 home runs and 67 RBI.<ref name="BR">{{cite web |title=Sal Fasano Statistics and History |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/fasansa01.shtml |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160321184609/http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/fasansa01.shtml |archive-date=March 21, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2016 |work=[[Baseball Reference]]}}</ref>


===Oakland Athletics===
===Oakland Athletics===
The [[Oakland Athletics]] purchased Fasano's contract from the Royals in March of {{By|2000}} and handed him the team's back up duties behind starter [[Ramón Hernández]]. Fasano helped the A's capture the [[American League West|A.L. West]] division crown that season, and made his, to date, only post season appearance as a defensive replacement.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/leagues/AL/2000.shtml |title=2000 American League Season Summary |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=2018-08-09 |archive-date=2009-04-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090420110716/http://www.baseball-reference.com/leagues/AL/2000.shtml |url-status=live }}</ref> While with Oakland, Fasano says, he came to realize that many players around him were taking [[anabolic steroid]]s, and briefly considered following suit, but he decided against it.<ref>Jeff Pearlman, "Mr. Clean". [[Reader's Digest]], August 2008, pp. 133–137.</ref> In 63 total games with the Athletics, Fasano hit .190 with 7 home runs and 19 RBI.<ref name="BR"/>
The [[Oakland Athletics]] acquired Fasano from the Royals in exchange for cash considerations on March 31, {{By|2000}}.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kahrl |first=Christina |date=April 3, 2000 |title=Transaction Analysis: March 23-31, 2000 |url=https://www.baseballprospectus.com/news/article/507/transaction-analysis-march-23-31-2000/ |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Baseball Prospectus]]}}</ref> He was named the team's backup catcher behind starter [[Ramón Hernández]]. Fasano helped the A's capture the [[American League West]] division crown that season, and made his, to date, only post season appearance as a defensive replacement.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sal Fasano Postseason Batting Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=fasansa01&t=b&year=0&post=1 |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Baseball Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> While with Oakland, Fasano says, he came to realize that many players around him were taking [[anabolic steroid]]s, and briefly considered following suit, but he decided against it.<ref>Pearlman, Jeff. "Mr. Clean". ''[[Reader's Digest]]'', August 2008, pp. 133–137.</ref> In 63 total games with the Athletics, Fasano hit .190 with seven home runs and 19 RBI.<ref name="BR"/>


===Return to Kansas City===
===Return to Kansas City===
On May 22, 2001, the Royals purchased Fasano from the Athletics.<ref name="BR"/> He appeared in only 3 games for the Royals, and went hitless in his lone at-bat before being traded to Colorado.<ref name="BR"/>
On May 22, 2001, the Royals purchased Fasano's contract from the Athletics.<ref>{{Cite web |date=May 22, 2001 |title=Royals get Fasano from Athletics |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/2001/05/22/Royals-get-Fasano-from-Athletics/7682990504000/ |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[United Press International]] |language=en}}</ref> He appeared in only three games for the Royals during his second stint, and went hitless in his lone at-bat.<ref name="BR"/>


===Colorado Rockies===
===Colorado Rockies===
On June 24, 2001, Fasano and [[Mac Suzuki]] were traded to the [[Colorado Rockies]] for [[Brent Mayne]].<ref name="BR"/> In 25 games for the Rockies, Fasano hit .254 with 3 home runs and 9 RBI.<ref name="BR"/>
On June 24, 2001, Fasano and [[Mac Suzuki]] were traded to the [[Colorado Rockies]] for [[Brent Mayne]].<ref>{{cite news |date=June 25, 2001 |title=Colorado trade Mayne to Royals |url=https://www.chron.com/sports/astros/article/Colorado-trade-Mayne-to-Royals-2055494.php |access-date=June 25, 2023 |work=[[Houston Chronicle]] |agency=[[Associated Press]]}}</ref> In 25 games for the Rockies, Fasano hit .254 with three home runs and 9 RBI.<ref name="BR"/>


===2002–2005===
===2002–2005===
On January 11, 2002, Fasano signed a minor league contract with the [[Tampa Bay Devil Rays]], and was released on June 1.<ref name="BR"/> On June 6, he signed with the [[Milwaukee Brewers]] organization. On July 31, Fasano and [[Alex Ochoa]] were traded to the [[Anaheim Angels]] for [[Jorge Fabregas]] and a player to be named later.<ref name="BR"/> Fasano played in only 2 games for the Angels, going 0–1 at the plate with a strikeout.<ref name="BR"/> On November 5, 2002, he was released by the Angels.<ref name="BR"/> He did not play baseball at any level in 2003, and on January 14, 2004, signed a minor league contract with the [[New York Yankees]]. Fasano appeared in 76 games for the [[Triple-A (baseball)|Triple-A]] [[Columbus Clippers]] in 2004, and hit .229 with 10 home runs and 34 RBI.<ref name="BRM">{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.cgi?id=fasano001sal|title=Sal Fasano Register Statistics & History|work=[[Baseball-Reference.com]]|access-date=March 25, 2016|archive-date=March 16, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160316233144/http://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.cgi?id=fasano001sal|url-status=live}}</ref>
On January 11, 2002, Fasano signed a minor league contract with the [[Tampa Bay Devil Rays]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 27, 2002 |title=6 Sign Minors Contracts With D-Rays |url=https://www.ctinsider.com/news/article/6-Sign-Minors-Contracts-With-D-Rays-7082553.php |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=Connecticut Insider}}</ref> and was released on June 1.<ref name="BR"/> On June 6, he signed with the [[Milwaukee Brewers]] organization.<ref name="BR" /> On July 31, Fasano and [[Alex Ochoa]] were traded to the [[Anaheim Angels]] for [[Jorge Fabregas]] and a player to be named later.<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 31, 2002 |title=Trade Central |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/tradecentral2002.html |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[ESPN]]}}</ref> Fasano played in only two games for the Angels, going 0-for-1 at the plate with a strikeout.<ref name="BR"/> On November 4, 2002, he was released by the Angels.<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 4, 2002 |title=Angels Release Sal Fasano |url=https://www.theintelligencer.com/news/article/Angels-Release-Sal-Fasano-10486770.php |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[The Edwardsville Intelligencer]]}}</ref> He did not play baseball at any level in 2003, and on January 14, 2004, signed a minor league contract with the [[New York Yankees]].<ref name="BR" /> Fasano appeared in 76 games for the [[Triple-A (baseball)|Triple-A]] [[Columbus Clippers]] in 2004, and hit .229 with 10 home runs and 34 RBI.<ref name="BRM">{{cite web |title=Sal Fasano Minor League Statistics & History |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.cgi?id=fasano001sal |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160316233144/http://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.cgi?id=fasano001sal |archive-date=March 16, 2016 |access-date=March 25, 2016 |work=[[Baseball-Reference.com]]}}</ref>


Fasano was released by the Yankees organization on October 15, 2004.<ref name="BR"/> On December 16, he signed with the [[Baltimore Orioles]] and appeared in 64 games for them during the 2005 season. Fasano had arguably the best season of his Major League career with Baltimore, hitting .250 with 11 home runs and 20 RBI.<ref name="BR"/> He became a free agent on October 15, 2005.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/trades.php?p=fasansa01 |title=Sal Fasano Trades and Transactions |website=Baseball Almanac |access-date=2018-08-09 |archive-date=2018-08-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180809215251/https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/trades.php?p=fasansa01 |url-status=live }}</ref>
Fasano was released by the Yankees organization on October 15, 2004.<ref name="BR"/> On December 16, he signed with the [[Baltimore Orioles]].<ref name="BR" /> Fasano appeared in 64 games for them during the 2005 season, and arguably had the best season of his Major League career, hitting .250 with 11 home runs and 20 RBI.<ref name="BR"/> He became a free agent on October 15, 2005.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sal Fasano Trades and Transactions |url=https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/trades.php?p=fasansa01 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180809215251/https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/trades.php?p=fasansa01 |archive-date=August 9, 2018 |access-date=August 9, 2018 |website=[[Baseball Almanac]]}}</ref>


===Philadelphia Phillies===
===Philadelphia Phillies===
Fasano began {{By|2006}} for the [[Philadelphia Phillies]] as a backup to [[Mike Lieberthal]]. His distinctive Fu Manchu mustache earned him the cult admiration of Phillies fans, who began a [[Philadelphia Phillies#Phan Phavorites|Phan Phavorites]] fan club called Sal's Pals. Fasano showed his gratitude by buying the group tickets and pizza.{{citation needed|date=March 2015}} Fasano began to see more playing time as Lieberthal got injured, eventually taking over the starting role. His light hitting though cost him his job as rookie backstop [[Chris Coste]] emerged in Lieberthal's absence. When Lieberthal returned, there was no spot for Fasano. He was designated for assignment and acquired by the New York Yankees in exchange for minor league infielder Hector Made. In 50 games for the Phillies, Fasano hit .243 with 4 home runs and 10 RBI.<ref name="BR"/>
On December 1, 2005, Fasano signed a one-year, $425,000 contract with the [[Philadelphia Phillies]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 1, 2005 |title=Thursday roundup: Cubs deal reliever to Red Sox |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=2243852 |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[ESPN]] |language=en |agency=[[Associated Press]]}}</ref> Fasano began {{By|2006}} as a backup to [[Mike Lieberthal]]. His distinctive Fu Manchu mustache earned him the cult admiration of Phillies fans, who began a [[Philadelphia Phillies#Phan Phavorites|Phan Phavorites]] fan club called Sal's Pals.<ref>{{cite news |date=April 21, 2006 |title=Sal's Pals More Entertaining Than Phillies |url=https://www.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com/news/sals-pals-more-entertaining-than-phillies/306206/ |access-date=June 25, 2023 |work=[[NBC Sports Philadelphia]]}}</ref> Fasano showed his gratitude by buying the group pizza.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Mallozzi |first1=Vincent M. |date=September 3, 2006 |title=Everybody loves Sal |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/09/03/sports/baseball/03cheer.html |access-date=June 25, 2023 |work=[[The New York Times]] |quote=Sal’s Pals drove to Yankee Stadium from Philadelphia every day from Aug. 11 to 17 and saw Fasano play in only three games. They have also traveled to Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Washington and Toronto to see him play. Their loyalty has been rewarded. During an April game against the Marlins, Fasano had 20 large pizzas delivered to about 40 of his Pals in the right-field stands at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. As the pizzas were served, Italian music filled the ballpark, and the scoreboard flashed, “Sal Fasano would like to offer these pizzas to Sal’s Pals.}}</ref> Fasano began to see more playing time as Lieberthal got injured, eventually taking over the starting role.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=June 10, 2006 |title=Lieberthal may be headed back to disabled list |url=https://www.mcall.com/2006/06/10/lieberthal-may-be-headed-back-to-disabled-list/ |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[The Morning Call]] |language=en-US}}</ref> However, when rookie backstop [[Chris Coste]] emerged in Lieberthal's absence, it left Fasano as the odd catcher out on the Phillies' roster. He was designated for assignment on July 22.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shenk |first=Larry |date=July 23, 2006 |title=Tough Time for Sal |url=https://philliesinsider.mlblogs.com/tough-time-for-sal-d6e352df8542 |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Medium (website)|Medium]] |language=en}}</ref> In 50 games for the Phillies, Fasano hit .243 with four home runs and 10 RBI.<ref name="BR"/>


===New York Yankees===
===New York Yankees===
One of Fasano's first acts as a Yankee was to trim his facial hair in accordance with [[Logos and uniforms of the New York Yankees#Personal appearance|the Yankees' personal appearance policy]]. He spent the late summer and September as a back-up to [[Jorge Posada]] and did not appear in the Yankees' four-game loss to the [[Detroit Tigers]] in the Division Series.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/2006_ALDS1.shtml |title=2006 AL Division Series – Detroit Tigers over New York Yankees (3–1) |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=2018-08-09 |archive-date=2008-07-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080727144153/http://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/2006_ALDS1.shtml |url-status=live }}</ref> On August 19, 2006, Fasano made his first career [[pinch runner|pinch-running]] appearance, taking the place of fellow catcher Jorge Posada during a 13–5 win over the [[Boston Red Sox]] at [[Fenway Park]]. During that game, Fasano nearly picked off [[Manny Ramirez]] after blocking the plate and denying the Red Sox another run.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/recap?gid=260819102|title=Yahoo Sports – Sports News, Scores, Fantasy Games|website=Yahoo Sports|access-date=8 November 2017|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304003005/http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/recap?gid=260819102|url-status=live}}</ref> In 28 games for the Yankees, Fasano batted .143 with 1 home run and 5 RBI.<ref name="BR"/>
On July 26, 2006, Fasano was acquired by the [[New York Yankees]] in exchange for minor league infielder Hector Made.<ref>{{cite news |date=July 26, 2006 |title=Yankees acquire catcher Sal Fasano from Philadelphia Phillies for Minor League infielder Hector Made; Designate catcher Kelly Stinnett for assignment |url=http://mlb.mlb.com/content/printer_friendly/nyy/y2006/m07/d26/c1576112.jsp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230624233620/http://mlb.mlb.com/content/printer_friendly/nyy/y2006/m07/d26/c1576112.jsp |archive-date=June 24, 2023 |access-date=June 25, 2023 |work=[[New York Yankees]] |publisher=[[MLB.com]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=July 26, 2006 |title=Yankees acquire Fasano from Phils for minor-leaguer |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=2530633 |access-date=June 25, 2023 |work=[[ESPN]] |agency=[[Associated Press]]}}</ref> One of Fasano's first acts as a Yankee was to trim his facial hair in accordance with [[New York Yankees appearance policy|the Yankees' personal appearance policy]]. He spent the late summer and September as a back-up to [[Jorge Posada]] and did not appear in the Yankees' four-game loss to the [[Detroit Tigers]] in the Division Series.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2006 AL Division Series – Detroit Tigers over New York Yankees (3–1) |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/2006_ALDS1.shtml |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080727144153/http://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/2006_ALDS1.shtml |archive-date=July 27, 2008 |access-date=August 9, 2018 |website=[[Baseball Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> On August 19, 2006, Fasano made his first career [[pinch runner|pinch-running]] appearance, taking the place of Posada during a 13–5 win over the [[Boston Red Sox]] at [[Fenway Park]]. During that game, Fasano nearly picked off [[Manny Ramirez]] after blocking the plate and denying the Red Sox another run.<ref>{{cite web |last=Golen |first=Jimmy |date=August 19, 2006 |title=Yankees 13, Red Sox 5 |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/recap?gid=260819102 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060822075939/http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/recap?gid=260819102 |archive-date=August 22, 2006 |access-date=November 8, 2017 |website=[[Yahoo! Sports]] |agency=[[Associated Press]]}}</ref> In 28 games for the Yankees, Fasano batted .143 with one home run and 5 RBI.<ref name="BR"/>


===Toronto Blue Jays===
===Toronto Blue Jays===
Fasano agreed to a minor league contract with the [[Toronto Blue Jays]] on January 17, {{By|2007}},<ref name="BR"/> and was invited to Major League [[spring training]]. On April 26, the Blue Jays purchased Fasano's contract from Triple-A [[Syracuse Chiefs|Syracuse]] of the [[International League]] in order to fill a void left by an injury to [[Gregg Zaun]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?statsId=5553|title=MLB Players Rosters – Major League Baseball – ESPN|website=ESPN.com|access-date=8 November 2017|archive-date=3 May 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080503205215/http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?statsId=5553|url-status=live}}</ref> During this time, he shared catching responsibilities with [[Jason Phillips (catcher)|Jason Phillips]]. His first at bat as a Blue Jay came against the [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]] on April 28. Following the return of Zaun, the Blue Jays designated Fasano for assignment on June 13 and sent him outright to Syracuse on June 16.
Fasano agreed to a minor league contract with the [[Toronto Blue Jays]] on January 17, {{By|2007}}, and was invited to Major League [[spring training]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bastian |first=Jordan |date=January 17, 2007 |title=Jays ink Fasano to Minor League deal |url=http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070117&content_id=1781007&vkey=news_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070123122550/http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070117&content_id=1781007&vkey=news_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor |archive-date=January 23, 2007 |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Toronto Blue Jays]] |publisher=[[MLB.com]]}}</ref> On April 26, the Blue Jays purchased Fasano's contract from Triple-A [[Syracuse Chiefs|Syracuse]] of the [[International League]] in order to fill a void left by an injury to [[Gregg Zaun]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Bastian |first=Jordan |date=April 25, 2007 |title=Notes: Zaun to undergo surgery |url=http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070425&content_id=1929722&vkey=news_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070428030759/http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070425&content_id=1929722&vkey=news_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor |archive-date=April 28, 2007 |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Toronto Blue Jays]] |publisher=[[MLB.com]]}}</ref> During this time, he shared catching responsibilities with [[Jason Phillips (catcher)|Jason Phillips]]. His first at bat as a Blue Jay came against the [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]] on April 28.<ref>{{Cite web |date=April 28, 2007 |title=Texas Rangers vs Toronto Blue Jays Box Score: April 28, 2007 |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/TOR/TOR200704280.shtml |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Baseball Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Following the return of Zaun, the Blue Jays designated Fasano for assignment on June 13.<ref>{{Cite web |date=June 13, 2007 |title=Blue Jays parting ways with Sal Fasano |url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/baseball/blue-jays-parting-ways-with-sal-fasano-1.651089 |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[CBC.ca]]}}</ref> He returned to Syracuse on June 19.<ref>{{Cite web |date=June 19, 2007 |title=Fasano returns to Chiefs |url=https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-262977 |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Minor League Baseball]] |language=en}}</ref>


At Syracuse, he hit .413 and earned a surprise call-up to the Blue Jays. He had a .178 average with 1 home run and 4 RBI in 16 games during his brief stint as a replacement for the injured Zaun.<ref name="BR"/> He finished the season as a member of the Blue Jays 40-man roster and the back-up to [[Gregg Zaun]] and [[Curtis Thigpen]]. On March 25, 2008, Fasano was released by the Blue Jays.<ref name="BR"/>
On September 4, Fasano was recalled by the Blue Jays.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bastian |first=Jordan |date=September 4, 2007 |title=Notes: League switches training sites |url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070904&content_id=2188744&vkey=news_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071101115633/http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070904&content_id=2188744&vkey=news_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor |archive-date=November 1, 2007 |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Toronto Blue Jays]] |publisher=[[MLB.com]]}}</ref> He had a .178 average with a home run and 4 RBI in 16 games during his brief stint as a replacement for the injured Zaun.<ref name="BR"/> He finished the season as a member of the Blue Jays 40-man roster and the back-up to Zaun and [[Curtis Thigpen]].

On December 14, 2007, Fasano re-signed with the Blue Jays on a minor league contract.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bastian |first=Jordan |date=December 14, 2007 |title=Fasano signs Minor League deal |url=http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071214&content_id=2326412&vkey=news_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071216174849/http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071214&content_id=2326412&vkey=news_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor |archive-date=December 16, 2007 |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Toronto Blue Jays]] |publisher=[[MLB.com]]}}</ref> On March 25, 2008, Fasano was released by the Blue Jays.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bastian |first=Jordan |date=March 25, 2008 |title=Jays release veteran catcher Fasano |url=http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080325&content_id=2456739&vkey=spt2008news&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080327200342/http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080325&content_id=2456739&vkey=spt2008news&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor |archive-date=March 27, 2008 |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Toronto Blue Jays]] |publisher=[[MLB.com]]}}</ref>


===Atlanta Braves===
===Atlanta Braves===
On April 11, 2008, Fasano signed as a free agent with the [[Atlanta Braves]] and was assigned to their Triple-A affiliate, the [[Richmond Braves]]. In 26 games for Richmond, Fasano hit .193 with 2 home runs and 9 RBI.<ref name="BRM"/>
On April 11, 2008, Fasano signed as a free agent with the [[Atlanta Braves]] and was assigned to their Triple-A affiliate, the [[Richmond Braves]].<ref name="BR" /> In 26 games for Richmond, Fasano hit .193 with two home runs and 9 RBI.<ref name="BRM"/>


===Cleveland Indians===
===Cleveland Indians===
On June 19, 2008, Fasano was traded by the Braves to the [[Cleveland Indians]] for a [[PTBNL|player to be named later]] and assigned to the Major League team as a backup for [[Kelly Shoppach]] with [[Víctor Martínez (baseball)|Víctor Martínez]] on the disabled list. In 15 games for the Indians in 2008, Fasano batted .261 with 6 RBI.<ref name="BR"/>
On June 19, 2008, Fasano was traded by the Braves to the [[Cleveland Indians]] for a [[PTBNL|player to be named later]] and assigned to the Major League team as a backup for [[Kelly Shoppach]] with [[Víctor Martínez (baseball)|Víctor Martínez]] on the disabled list.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Castrovince |first=Anthony |date=June 19, 2008 |title=Indians acquire Fasano from Braves |url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080619&content_id=2966224&vkey=news_cle&fext=.jsp&c_id=cle |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080622222224/http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080619&content_id=2966224&vkey=news_cle&fext=.jsp&c_id=cle |archive-date=June 22, 2008 |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Cleveland Guardians|Cleveland Indians]] |publisher=[[MLB.com]]}}</ref> In 15 games for the Indians in 2008, Fasano batted .261 with 6 RBI.<ref name="BR"/>


===Return to Colorado===
===Return to Colorado===
[[File:Sal Fasano on June 15, 2009.jpg|280px|thumb|Fasano playing for the [[Colorado Springs Sky Sox]] in {{By|2009}}]]
[[File:Sal Fasano on June 15, 2009.jpg|280px|thumb|Fasano playing for the [[Colorado Springs Sky Sox]] in {{By|2009}}]]
On February 10, {{By|2009}}, Fasano signed a minor league deal to return to the Rockies. He was also extended an invitation to Major League spring training. Fasano played the entire 2009 season in Triple-A, batting .236 with 4 home runs and 21 RBI in 61 games for Colorado Springs, and retired at the end of the season.<ref name="BR"/>
On February 10, {{By|2009}}, Fasano signed a minor league deal to return to the Rockies. He was also extended an invitation to Major League spring training.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Harding |first=Thomas |date=February 10, 2009 |title=Rockies invite 20 non-roster players |url=http://colorado.rockies.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090210&content_id=3814496&vkey=news_col&fext=.jsp&c_id=col |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090215200724/http://colorado.rockies.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090210&content_id=3814496&vkey=news_col&fext=.jsp&c_id=col |archive-date=February 15, 2009 |access-date=August 17, 2024 |website=[[Colorado Rockies]] |publisher=[[MLB.com]]}}</ref> Fasano played the entire 2009 season in Triple-A, batting .236 with four home runs and 21 RBI in 61 games for the Triple-A [[Colorado Springs Sky Sox]],<ref name="BRM" /> and retired at the end of the season.<ref name="BR"/>


==Coaching career==
==Coaching career==
===Toronto Blue Jays===
On November 25, 2009, Fasano returned to the Blue Jays organization, taking a managerial job for their Single-A affiliate, the [[Lansing Lugnuts]]. He finished managing Lugnuts with a record of 70–69 (.504).<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://prev.dailyherald.com/story/?id=389211 |title=As managers go, Fasano catching on to his new role |work=Daily Herald |access-date=2018-08-09 |language=en |archive-date=2018-08-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180809184030/http://prev.dailyherald.com/story/?id=389211 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.thebaseballcube.com/teams/stats.asp?Y=2010&T=10273 |title=2010 Lansing Lugnuts |website=The Baseball Cube |access-date=2018-08-09 |archive-date=2019-03-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190311233336/http://thebaseballcube.com/teams/stats.asp?Y=2010&T=10273 |url-status=live }}</ref>
On November 25, 2009, Fasano returned to the [[Toronto Blue Jays]] organization, accepting a managerial position with their Single–A affiliate, the [[Lansing Lugnuts]], leading the 2010 team to a season record of 70–69 (.504).<ref>{{Cite news |last=Maciaszek |first=Marty |date=June 21, 2010 |title=As managers go, Fasano catching on to his new role |url=http://prev.dailyherald.com/story/?id=389211 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180809184030/http://prev.dailyherald.com/story/?id=389211 |archive-date=August 9, 2018 |access-date=August 9, 2018 |work=[[Daily Herald (Arlington Heights, Illinois)|Daily Herald]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.thebaseballcube.com/teams/stats.asp?Y=2010&T=10273 |title=2010 Lansing Lugnuts |website=The Baseball Cube |access-date=August 9, 2018 |archive-date=March 11, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190311233336/http://thebaseballcube.com/teams/stats.asp?Y=2010&T=10273 |url-status=live }}</ref>


On November 28, 2010, Fasano accepted the position as the manager of the [[New Hampshire Fisher Cats]], the Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.milb.com/news/print.jsp?ymd=20101130&content_id=16228990&vkey=pr_t463&fext=.jsp&sid=milb |title=Sal Fasano Named Fisher Cats' Manager |work=MiLB.com |access-date=2018-08-09 |language=en |archive-date=2018-08-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180809184307/http://www.milb.com/news/print.jsp?ymd=20101130&content_id=16228990&vkey=pr_t463&fext=.jsp&sid=milb |url-status=live }}</ref>
On November 28, 2010, Fasano accepted the position as the manager of the [[New Hampshire Fisher Cats]], Toronto's Double–A affiliate.<ref>{{Cite news |date=November 30, 2010 |title=Sal Fasano Named Fisher Cats' Manager |url=http://www.milb.com/news/print.jsp?ymd=20101130&content_id=16228990&vkey=pr_t463&fext=.jsp&sid=milb |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180809184307/http://www.milb.com/news/print.jsp?ymd=20101130&content_id=16228990&vkey=pr_t463&fext=.jsp&sid=milb |archive-date=August 9, 2018 |access-date=August 9, 2018 |work=[[Minor League Baseball]] |language=en}}</ref>


In 2011, Fasano was named Double-A Manager of the Year for leading the New Hampshire Fisher Cats to an Eastern League championship win.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.milb.com/milb/news/sal-fasano-named-manager-of-the-year/c-23769358 |title=Sal Fasano Named Manager of the Year |work=MiLB.com |access-date=2018-08-09 |language=en}}</ref> During the offseason, Fasano was given the position of Roving Catching Instructor in Player Development. [[Gary Allenson]] was named manager of the Fisher Cats.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130107&content_id=40872942&vkey=pr_tor&c_id=tor|title=Blue Jays announce Minor League appointments|work=MLB.com|date=January 7, 2013|access-date=February 10, 2013|archive-date=February 1, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130201144827/http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130107&content_id=40872942&vkey=pr_tor&c_id=tor|url-status=live}}</ref>
In 2011, Fasano was named Double–A Manager of the Year for leading the Fisher Cats to an Eastern League championship win.<ref name="d922">{{cite web |last=Rosario |first=Bill |date=August 26, 2011 |title=Sal Fasano Named Manager of the Year |url=https://www.milb.com/milb/news/gcs-23769358 |access-date=August 9, 2024 |website=[[Minor League Baseball]]}}</ref> During the offseason, Fasano was given the position of Roving Catching Instructor in Player Development, and [[Gary Allenson]] was named manager of the Fisher Cats.<ref>{{cite web |date=January 7, 2013 |title=Blue Jays announce Minor League appointments |url=http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130107&content_id=40872942&vkey=pr_tor&c_id=tor |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130201144827/http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130107&content_id=40872942&vkey=pr_tor&c_id=tor |archive-date=February 1, 2013 |access-date=February 10, 2013 |work=[[Toronto Blue Jays]] |publisher=[[MLB.com]]}}</ref>


===Los Angeles Angels===
After being dismissed from the Blue Jays staff, Fasano became the manager for the [[Mobile BayBears]] for the 2017 season.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Kelly|first1=Matt|title=Angels announce Minor League staffs|url=http://m.mlb.com/news/article/214010212/angels-announce-minor-league-coaching-staffs/|access-date=30 September 2017|work=MLB.com|date=January 20, 2017|archive-date=1 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171001031334/http://m.mlb.com/news/article/214010212/angels-announce-minor-league-coaching-staffs/|url-status=live}}</ref> The season ended with a record of 34–36 (.486).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.milb.com/index.jsp?sid=t417|title=The Official Site of The Mobile BayBears – mobilebaybears.com Homepage|website=Mobile BayBears|access-date=8 November 2017|archive-date=21 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021025436/http://www.milb.com/index.jsp?sid=t417|url-status=live}}</ref>
On January 20, 2017, the [[Los Angeles Angels]] hired Fasano to serve as the manager for their Double–A, the [[Mobile BayBears]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kelly |first1=Matt |date=January 20, 2017 |title=Angels announce Minor League staffs |url=http://m.mlb.com/news/article/214010212/angels-announce-minor-league-coaching-staffs/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171001031334/http://m.mlb.com/news/article/214010212/angels-announce-minor-league-coaching-staffs/ |archive-date=October 1, 2017 |access-date=September 30, 2017 |work=[[MLB.com]] |publisher=[[MLB Advanced Media]]}}</ref> The season ended with the BayBears holding a record of 64–75 (.460).<ref name="BRM" />

⚫
===Atlanta Braves===
On November 10, 2017, Fasano took a job as the catching instructor for the [[Atlanta Braves]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=November 10, 2017 |title=Braves add Weiss, Young Sr., Fasano to coaching staff |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2017/11/10/braves-add-weiss-young-sr-fasano-to-coaching-staff/107534656/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180809190736/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2017/11/10/braves-add-weiss-young-sr-fasano-to-coaching-staff/107534656/ |archive-date=August 9, 2018 |access-date=August 9, 2018 |work=[[USA Today]] |language=en |agency=[[Associated Press]]}}</ref> On October 10, 2024, the Braves announced that Fasano would not return for the 2025 season, and that his position would not be filled.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Bowman |first1=Mark |title=Hitting coach Seitzer won't be retained after 10-year run |url=https://www.mlb.com/braves/news/braves-kevin-seitzer-bobby-magallanes-and-sal-fasano-not-returning |access-date=October 11, 2024 |publisher=MLB.com |date=October 10, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Braves fire hitting coach, others after NL wild-card sweep |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/41724601/braves-fire-hitting-coach-others-wild-card-sweep-reports |access-date=October 11, 2024 |agency=Associated Press |publisher=ESPN.com |date=October 10, 2024}}</ref>


===Los Angeles Angels (second stint)===
In the fall of 2017, Fasano took a job as the catching instructor for the [[Atlanta Braves]].<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2017/11/10/braves-add-weiss-young-sr-fasano-to-coaching-staff/107534656/ |title=Braves add Weiss, Young Sr., Fasano to coaching staff |work=USA TODAY |access-date=2018-08-09 |language=en |archive-date=2018-08-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180809190736/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2017/11/10/braves-add-weiss-young-sr-fasano-to-coaching-staff/107534656/ |url-status=live }}</ref> This is the first coaching job that he has had in Major League Baseball.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://m.braves.mlb.com/news/article/261286440/walt-weiss-is-the-new-braves-bench-coach |title=Walt Weiss is the new Braves bench coach |work=Atlanta Braves News |access-date=2018-08-09 |language=en |archive-date=2017-11-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171114163021/http://m.braves.mlb.com/news/article/261286440/walt-weiss-is-the-new-braves-bench-coach/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
On November 11, 2024, Fasano was hired by the [[Los Angeles Angels]] to serve as the team's assistant pitching coach.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Angels Sign Travis d’Arnaud To Two-Year Deal|url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/11/angels-sign-travis-darnaud-to-two-year-deal.html|access-date=November 12, 2024|website=mlbtraderumors.com|language=en}}</ref>


==Personal life==
==Personal life==
Fasano is the son of Vincent and Nella Fasano, Italian immigrants who settled in the Chicago area. He graduated from [[Hoffman Estates High School]] in [[Illinois]], and played at the Division I University of Evansville, and is married to Kerri Kubinski, who was a volleyball player at Evansville.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com/Sports/article/217969|title=Not so unlucky No. 13|first=Allan|last=Ryan|date=26 May 2007|access-date=8 November 2017|newspaper=Toronto Star|archive-date=27 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120927022724/http://www.thestar.com/Sports/article/217969|url-status=live}}</ref> Fasano is a born-again Christian; he was introduced to spirituality by Kansas City teammate [[Keith Lockhart (baseball player)|Keith Lockhart]] and credits religion with curtailing his desire to drink. Sal and Kerri have three children: Vincenzo, Angelo, and Santino. Santino was born with [[hypoplastic left heart syndrome]] and was successfully operated on.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.rd.com/your-america-inspiring-people-and-stories/baseball-player-contemplates-steriod-use/article89787-1.html |title=Archived copy |access-date=2009-04-03 |archive-date=2009-02-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090207195422/http://www.rd.com/your-america-inspiring-people-and-stories/baseball-player-contemplates-steriod-use/article89787-1.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
Fasano is the son of Vincent and Nella Fasano, Italian immigrants who settled in the Chicago area. He graduated from [[Hoffman Estates High School]] in [[Illinois]], and played baseball collegiately at the [[Evansville Aces baseball|University of Evansville]], and is married to Kerri Kubinski, who was a volleyball player at Evansville.<ref>{{cite news |last=Ryan |first=Allan |date=May 26, 2007 |title=Not so unlucky No. 13 |url=https://www.thestar.com/Sports/article/217969 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120927022724/http://www.thestar.com/Sports/article/217969 |archive-date=September 27, 2012 |access-date=November 8, 2017 |newspaper=[[Toronto Star]]}}</ref> Fasano is a born-again Christian; he was introduced to spirituality by Kansas City teammate [[Keith Lockhart (baseball)|Keith Lockhart]] and credits religion with curtailing his desire to drink. Fasano and his wife have three children: Vincenzo, Angelo, and Santino. Santino was born with [[hypoplastic left heart syndrome]] and was successfully operated on.<ref>{{Cite web |date=August 2008 |title=A Baseball Career Without Steroids |url=http://www.rd.com/your-america-inspiring-people-and-stories/baseball-player-contemplates-steriod-use/article89787-1.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090207195422/http://www.rd.com/your-america-inspiring-people-and-stories/baseball-player-contemplates-steriod-use/article89787-1.html |archive-date=February 7, 2009 |access-date=April 3, 2009 |website=[[Reader's Digest]]}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
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==External links==
==External links==
{{Commons category}}
{{baseballstats |mlb=114031 |espn=3392 |br=f/fasansa01 |fangraphs=1205 |brm=fasano001sal |retro=F/Pfasas001}}
{{baseballstats |mlb=114031 |espn=3392 |br=f/fasansa01 |fangraphs=1205 |brm=fasano001sal |retro=F/Pfasas001}}
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20121025121001/http://www.canada.com/topics/sports/story.html?id=2a7b4846-b7ba-4ca9-9b24-44317f97d012&k=12694 Sal Fasano more than a human spare part]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20121025121001/http://www.canada.com/topics/sports/story.html?id=2a7b4846-b7ba-4ca9-9b24-44317f97d012&k=12694 Sal Fasano more than a human spare part]
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{{Italy roster 2017 World Baseball Classic}}
{{Italy roster 2017 World Baseball Classic}}
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{{Atlanta Braves roster navbox}}
{{2021 Atlanta Braves}}
{{2021 Atlanta Braves}}
{{Midwest League MVP}}
{{Los Angeles Angels roster navbox}}


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{{DEFAULTSORT:Fasano, Sal}}
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[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:American expatriate baseball players in Canada]]
[[Category:American expatriate baseball players in Canada]]
[[Category:American sportspeople of Italian descent]]
[[Category:American people of Italian descent]]
[[Category:Atlanta Braves coaches]]
[[Category:Atlanta Braves coaches]]
[[Category:Anaheim Angels players]]
[[Category:Anaheim Angels players]]
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[[Category:Kansas City Royals players]]
[[Category:Kansas City Royals players]]
[[Category:Major League Baseball catchers]]
[[Category:Major League Baseball catchers]]
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[[Category:New Hampshire Fisher Cats managers]]
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[[Category:Philadelphia Phillies players]]
[[Category:Philadelphia Phillies players]]
[[Category:Richmond Braves players]]
[[Category:Richmond Braves players]]
[[Category:Sportspeople from Chicago]]
[[Category:Toronto Blue Jays players]]
[[Category:Toronto Blue Jays players]]
[[Category:Omaha Golden Spikes players]]
[[Category:Omaha Golden Spikes players]]

Latest revision as of 17:42, 22 December 2024

Sal Fasano
Fasano as manager for the Lansing Lugnuts in 2010.
Los Angeles Angels
Catcher / Coach
Born: (1971-08-10) August 10, 1971 (age 53)
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Batted: Right
Threw: Right
MLB debut
April 3, 1996, for the Kansas City Royals
Last MLB appearance
September 14, 2008, for the Cleveland Indians
MLB statistics
Batting average.221
Home runs47
Runs batted in140
Stats at Baseball Reference Edit this at Wikidata
Teams
As player
As coach
Career highlights and awards

Salvatore Frank Fasano (/fəˈsɑːnoʊ/; born August 10, 1971) is an American former professional baseball catcher, who played for nine different Major League Baseball (MLB) teams over his 11–year big league career. Upon retiring as a player, he became a coach within the Toronto Blue Jays organization between 2010 and 2016. After coaching for a single season within the Los Angeles Angels minor league system, Fasano joined the major league coaching staff of the Atlanta Braves. He currently serves as the assistant pitching coach for the Angels.

Jeff Pearlman of ESPN.com said of Fasano: "When I think of Sal Fasano, however, I think of greatness. Not of Willie Mays or Ted Williams greatness, but of a uniquely excellent human being who, were class and decency the most valued standards of a career, would be the easiest Hall of Fame inductee of all time."[1]

Professional career

[edit]

Kansas City Royals

[edit]

After three seasons in the minor leagues, Fasano made his Major League debut on April 3, 1996, for the Royals. He finished the game 0-for-3 in a 7–1 loss to the Baltimore Orioles.[2] He spent the next three seasons splitting catching duties with starter Mike Macfarlane and rising prospect Mike Sweeney. In 1998, he established career highs in at bats (216) and runs batted in (RBIs) (31).[3] He also ranked second in the American League in HBPs with 16.[4] In his first four seasons with the Royals, Fasano batted .219 with 20 home runs and 67 RBI.[3]

Oakland Athletics

[edit]

The Oakland Athletics acquired Fasano from the Royals in exchange for cash considerations on March 31, 2000.[5] He was named the team's backup catcher behind starter Ramón Hernández. Fasano helped the A's capture the American League West division crown that season, and made his, to date, only post season appearance as a defensive replacement.[6] While with Oakland, Fasano says, he came to realize that many players around him were taking anabolic steroids, and briefly considered following suit, but he decided against it.[7] In 63 total games with the Athletics, Fasano hit .190 with seven home runs and 19 RBI.[3]

Return to Kansas City

[edit]

On May 22, 2001, the Royals purchased Fasano's contract from the Athletics.[8] He appeared in only three games for the Royals during his second stint, and went hitless in his lone at-bat.[3]

Colorado Rockies

[edit]

On June 24, 2001, Fasano and Mac Suzuki were traded to the Colorado Rockies for Brent Mayne.[9] In 25 games for the Rockies, Fasano hit .254 with three home runs and 9 RBI.[3]

2002–2005

[edit]

On January 11, 2002, Fasano signed a minor league contract with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.[10] and was released on June 1.[3] On June 6, he signed with the Milwaukee Brewers organization.[3] On July 31, Fasano and Alex Ochoa were traded to the Anaheim Angels for Jorge Fabregas and a player to be named later.[11] Fasano played in only two games for the Angels, going 0-for-1 at the plate with a strikeout.[3] On November 4, 2002, he was released by the Angels.[12] He did not play baseball at any level in 2003, and on January 14, 2004, signed a minor league contract with the New York Yankees.[3] Fasano appeared in 76 games for the Triple-A Columbus Clippers in 2004, and hit .229 with 10 home runs and 34 RBI.[13]

Fasano was released by the Yankees organization on October 15, 2004.[3] On December 16, he signed with the Baltimore Orioles.[3] Fasano appeared in 64 games for them during the 2005 season, and arguably had the best season of his Major League career, hitting .250 with 11 home runs and 20 RBI.[3] He became a free agent on October 15, 2005.[14]

Philadelphia Phillies

[edit]

On December 1, 2005, Fasano signed a one-year, $425,000 contract with the Philadelphia Phillies.[15] Fasano began 2006 as a backup to Mike Lieberthal. His distinctive Fu Manchu mustache earned him the cult admiration of Phillies fans, who began a Phan Phavorites fan club called Sal's Pals.[16] Fasano showed his gratitude by buying the group pizza.[17] Fasano began to see more playing time as Lieberthal got injured, eventually taking over the starting role.[18] However, when rookie backstop Chris Coste emerged in Lieberthal's absence, it left Fasano as the odd catcher out on the Phillies' roster. He was designated for assignment on July 22.[19] In 50 games for the Phillies, Fasano hit .243 with four home runs and 10 RBI.[3]

New York Yankees

[edit]

On July 26, 2006, Fasano was acquired by the New York Yankees in exchange for minor league infielder Hector Made.[20][21] One of Fasano's first acts as a Yankee was to trim his facial hair in accordance with the Yankees' personal appearance policy. He spent the late summer and September as a back-up to Jorge Posada and did not appear in the Yankees' four-game loss to the Detroit Tigers in the Division Series.[22] On August 19, 2006, Fasano made his first career pinch-running appearance, taking the place of Posada during a 13–5 win over the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. During that game, Fasano nearly picked off Manny Ramirez after blocking the plate and denying the Red Sox another run.[23] In 28 games for the Yankees, Fasano batted .143 with one home run and 5 RBI.[3]

Toronto Blue Jays

[edit]

Fasano agreed to a minor league contract with the Toronto Blue Jays on January 17, 2007, and was invited to Major League spring training.[24] On April 26, the Blue Jays purchased Fasano's contract from Triple-A Syracuse of the International League in order to fill a void left by an injury to Gregg Zaun.[25] During this time, he shared catching responsibilities with Jason Phillips. His first at bat as a Blue Jay came against the Texas Rangers on April 28.[26] Following the return of Zaun, the Blue Jays designated Fasano for assignment on June 13.[27] He returned to Syracuse on June 19.[28]

On September 4, Fasano was recalled by the Blue Jays.[29] He had a .178 average with a home run and 4 RBI in 16 games during his brief stint as a replacement for the injured Zaun.[3] He finished the season as a member of the Blue Jays 40-man roster and the back-up to Zaun and Curtis Thigpen.

On December 14, 2007, Fasano re-signed with the Blue Jays on a minor league contract.[30] On March 25, 2008, Fasano was released by the Blue Jays.[31]

Atlanta Braves

[edit]

On April 11, 2008, Fasano signed as a free agent with the Atlanta Braves and was assigned to their Triple-A affiliate, the Richmond Braves.[3] In 26 games for Richmond, Fasano hit .193 with two home runs and 9 RBI.[13]

Cleveland Indians

[edit]

On June 19, 2008, Fasano was traded by the Braves to the Cleveland Indians for a player to be named later and assigned to the Major League team as a backup for Kelly Shoppach with Víctor Martínez on the disabled list.[32] In 15 games for the Indians in 2008, Fasano batted .261 with 6 RBI.[3]

Return to Colorado

[edit]
Fasano playing for the Colorado Springs Sky Sox in 2009

On February 10, 2009, Fasano signed a minor league deal to return to the Rockies. He was also extended an invitation to Major League spring training.[33] Fasano played the entire 2009 season in Triple-A, batting .236 with four home runs and 21 RBI in 61 games for the Triple-A Colorado Springs Sky Sox,[13] and retired at the end of the season.[3]

Coaching career

[edit]

Toronto Blue Jays

[edit]

On November 25, 2009, Fasano returned to the Toronto Blue Jays organization, accepting a managerial position with their Single–A affiliate, the Lansing Lugnuts, leading the 2010 team to a season record of 70–69 (.504).[34][35]

On November 28, 2010, Fasano accepted the position as the manager of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, Toronto's Double–A affiliate.[36]

In 2011, Fasano was named Double–A Manager of the Year for leading the Fisher Cats to an Eastern League championship win.[37] During the offseason, Fasano was given the position of Roving Catching Instructor in Player Development, and Gary Allenson was named manager of the Fisher Cats.[38]

Los Angeles Angels

[edit]

On January 20, 2017, the Los Angeles Angels hired Fasano to serve as the manager for their Double–A, the Mobile BayBears.[39] The season ended with the BayBears holding a record of 64–75 (.460).[13]

Atlanta Braves

[edit]

On November 10, 2017, Fasano took a job as the catching instructor for the Atlanta Braves.[40] On October 10, 2024, the Braves announced that Fasano would not return for the 2025 season, and that his position would not be filled.[41][42]

Los Angeles Angels (second stint)

[edit]

On November 11, 2024, Fasano was hired by the Los Angeles Angels to serve as the team's assistant pitching coach.[43]

Personal life

[edit]

Fasano is the son of Vincent and Nella Fasano, Italian immigrants who settled in the Chicago area. He graduated from Hoffman Estates High School in Illinois, and played baseball collegiately at the University of Evansville, and is married to Kerri Kubinski, who was a volleyball player at Evansville.[44] Fasano is a born-again Christian; he was introduced to spirituality by Kansas City teammate Keith Lockhart and credits religion with curtailing his desire to drink. Fasano and his wife have three children: Vincenzo, Angelo, and Santino. Santino was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and was successfully operated on.[45]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Pearlman, Jeff (April 6, 2007). "Pearlman: A guy we'll miss – ESPN Page 2". ESPN. Archived from the original on September 5, 2015. Retrieved November 8, 2017.
  2. ^ "Kansas City Royals vs Baltimore Orioles Box Score: April 3, 1996". Baseball Reference. April 3, 1996. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  3. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r "Sal Fasano Statistics and History". Baseball Reference. Archived from the original on March 21, 2016. Retrieved March 25, 2016.
  4. ^ "1998 American League Batting Leaders". Baseball Reference. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  5. ^ Kahrl, Christina (April 3, 2000). "Transaction Analysis: March 23-31, 2000". Baseball Prospectus. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  6. ^ "Sal Fasano Postseason Batting Game Logs". Baseball Reference. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  7. ^ Pearlman, Jeff. "Mr. Clean". Reader's Digest, August 2008, pp. 133–137.
  8. ^ "Royals get Fasano from Athletics". United Press International. May 22, 2001. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  9. ^ "Colorado trade Mayne to Royals". Houston Chronicle. Associated Press. June 25, 2001. Retrieved June 25, 2023.
  10. ^ "6 Sign Minors Contracts With D-Rays". Connecticut Insider. January 27, 2002. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  11. ^ "Trade Central". ESPN. July 31, 2002. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  12. ^ "Angels Release Sal Fasano". The Edwardsville Intelligencer. November 4, 2002. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  13. ^ a b c d "Sal Fasano Minor League Statistics & History". Baseball-Reference.com. Archived from the original on March 16, 2016. Retrieved March 25, 2016.
  14. ^ "Sal Fasano Trades and Transactions". Baseball Almanac. Archived from the original on August 9, 2018. Retrieved August 9, 2018.
  15. ^ "Thursday roundup: Cubs deal reliever to Red Sox". ESPN. Associated Press. December 1, 2005. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  16. ^ "Sal's Pals More Entertaining Than Phillies". NBC Sports Philadelphia. April 21, 2006. Retrieved June 25, 2023.
  17. ^ Mallozzi, Vincent M. (September 3, 2006). "Everybody loves Sal". The New York Times. Retrieved June 25, 2023. Sal's Pals drove to Yankee Stadium from Philadelphia every day from Aug. 11 to 17 and saw Fasano play in only three games. They have also traveled to Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Washington and Toronto to see him play. Their loyalty has been rewarded. During an April game against the Marlins, Fasano had 20 large pizzas delivered to about 40 of his Pals in the right-field stands at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. As the pizzas were served, Italian music filled the ballpark, and the scoreboard flashed, "Sal Fasano would like to offer these pizzas to Sal's Pals.
  18. ^ "Lieberthal may be headed back to disabled list". The Morning Call. June 10, 2006. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  19. ^ Shenk, Larry (July 23, 2006). "Tough Time for Sal". Medium. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  20. ^ "Yankees acquire catcher Sal Fasano from Philadelphia Phillies for Minor League infielder Hector Made; Designate catcher Kelly Stinnett for assignment". New York Yankees. MLB.com. July 26, 2006. Archived from the original on June 24, 2023. Retrieved June 25, 2023.
  21. ^ "Yankees acquire Fasano from Phils for minor-leaguer". ESPN. Associated Press. July 26, 2006. Retrieved June 25, 2023.
  22. ^ "2006 AL Division Series – Detroit Tigers over New York Yankees (3–1)". Baseball Reference. Archived from the original on July 27, 2008. Retrieved August 9, 2018.
  23. ^ Golen, Jimmy (August 19, 2006). "Yankees 13, Red Sox 5". Yahoo! Sports. Associated Press. Archived from the original on August 22, 2006. Retrieved November 8, 2017.
  24. ^ Bastian, Jordan (January 17, 2007). "Jays ink Fasano to Minor League deal". Toronto Blue Jays. MLB.com. Archived from the original on January 23, 2007. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  25. ^ Bastian, Jordan (April 25, 2007). "Notes: Zaun to undergo surgery". Toronto Blue Jays. MLB.com. Archived from the original on April 28, 2007. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  26. ^ "Texas Rangers vs Toronto Blue Jays Box Score: April 28, 2007". Baseball Reference. April 28, 2007. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  27. ^ "Blue Jays parting ways with Sal Fasano". CBC.ca. June 13, 2007. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  28. ^ "Fasano returns to Chiefs". Minor League Baseball. June 19, 2007. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  29. ^ Bastian, Jordan (September 4, 2007). "Notes: League switches training sites". Toronto Blue Jays. MLB.com. Archived from the original on November 1, 2007. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  30. ^ Bastian, Jordan (December 14, 2007). "Fasano signs Minor League deal". Toronto Blue Jays. MLB.com. Archived from the original on December 16, 2007. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  31. ^ Bastian, Jordan (March 25, 2008). "Jays release veteran catcher Fasano". Toronto Blue Jays. MLB.com. Archived from the original on March 27, 2008. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  32. ^ Castrovince, Anthony (June 19, 2008). "Indians acquire Fasano from Braves". Cleveland Indians. MLB.com. Archived from the original on June 22, 2008. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  33. ^ Harding, Thomas (February 10, 2009). "Rockies invite 20 non-roster players". Colorado Rockies. MLB.com. Archived from the original on February 15, 2009. Retrieved August 17, 2024.
  34. ^ Maciaszek, Marty (June 21, 2010). "As managers go, Fasano catching on to his new role". Daily Herald. Archived from the original on August 9, 2018. Retrieved August 9, 2018.
  35. ^ "2010 Lansing Lugnuts". The Baseball Cube. Archived from the original on March 11, 2019. Retrieved August 9, 2018.
  36. ^ "Sal Fasano Named Fisher Cats' Manager". Minor League Baseball. November 30, 2010. Archived from the original on August 9, 2018. Retrieved August 9, 2018.
  37. ^ Rosario, Bill (August 26, 2011). "Sal Fasano Named Manager of the Year". Minor League Baseball. Retrieved August 9, 2024.
  38. ^ "Blue Jays announce Minor League appointments". Toronto Blue Jays. MLB.com. January 7, 2013. Archived from the original on February 1, 2013. Retrieved February 10, 2013.
  39. ^ Kelly, Matt (January 20, 2017). "Angels announce Minor League staffs". MLB.com. MLB Advanced Media. Archived from the original on October 1, 2017. Retrieved September 30, 2017.
  40. ^ "Braves add Weiss, Young Sr., Fasano to coaching staff". USA Today. Associated Press. November 10, 2017. Archived from the original on August 9, 2018. Retrieved August 9, 2018.
  41. ^ Bowman, Mark (October 10, 2024). "Hitting coach Seitzer won't be retained after 10-year run". MLB.com. Retrieved October 11, 2024.
  42. ^ "Braves fire hitting coach, others after NL wild-card sweep". ESPN.com. Associated Press. October 10, 2024. Retrieved October 11, 2024.
  43. ^ "Angels Sign Travis d'Arnaud To Two-Year Deal". mlbtraderumors.com. Retrieved November 12, 2024.
  44. ^ Ryan, Allan (May 26, 2007). "Not so unlucky No. 13". Toronto Star. Archived from the original on September 27, 2012. Retrieved November 8, 2017.
  45. ^ "A Baseball Career Without Steroids". Reader's Digest. August 2008. Archived from the original on February 7, 2009. Retrieved April 3, 2009.
[edit]
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