ZooKeepers Manager Serving as Advance Scout for Team Italy During World Baseball Classic

ASHEBORO, N.C. — As the World Baseball Classic is now underway and heading into bracket play, the Asheboro ZooKeepers are proud to have their manager, Mark Weidemaier, contributing on the international stage as an advance scout for the Italy National Baseball Team.

In this role, the ZooKeepers skipper is assisting Team Italy’s coaching staff by scouting opponents, preparing detailed reports, and analyzing player tendencies throughout the tournament. Advance scouts provide critical information that helps shape game plans, including insights on pitching matchups, offensive approaches, defensive alignments, and situational strategies.

With the World Baseball Classic featuring many of the top professional players from across Major League Baseball and leagues around the world, the opportunity to contribute during the competition is a significant honor.

“It’s been a privilege to do the Advance Scouting for Team Italy here in the WBC,” Weidemaier said. “I am thankful to my former boss with the Los Angeles Dodgers and current Team Italy GM, Ned Colletti, for bringing me on board with this special group of players and coaches.”

As bracket play begins, he will continue breaking down opposing teams and delivering scouting reports that assist Team Italy with in-game preparation and strategic decision-making.

The entire Asheboro ZooKeepers organization is proud to see its leadership represented at the international level.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for Mark and well deserved,” ZooKeepers GM, Korey Dunbar, said. “Having our manager contribute to a national team while the World Baseball Classic is taking place speaks to his baseball knowledge and the respect he has earned throughout the game.”

The experience gained during the World Baseball Classic will bring valuable perspective back to Asheboro as preparations continue for another exciting summer of baseball at McCrary Park.

Fans can follow the ZooKeepers for more updates as the team gears up for the upcoming 2026 Coastal Plain League season.