In a career that spans from the modest baseball fields of Jamestown to the high-stakes arenas of professional independent baseball, Anthony Barone has emerged as a formidable force in the sport. His dedication and strategic acumen have not only earned him accolades but also transformed teams into champions. As a 2025 Chautauqua Sports Hall of Fame inductee, Barone’s story is one of perseverance, leadership, and unwavering passion for the game.

Elevating Teams and Inspiring Players: Barone's Blueprint for Success

Early Days and Athletic Excellence

Anthony Barone's love affair with baseball began on the sun-drenched fields of Jamestown. A standout athlete at Jamestown High School, he excelled in both baseball and basketball. Barone's prowess on the diamond was evident early on, hitting an impressive .350 average and earning First-Team All-ECIC honors as a shortstop. Off the field, he received the Jeff Nelson Memorial Award for his contributions to basketball. This dual-sport success laid the foundation for a future filled with achievements.Barone's journey continued at Jamestown Community College (JCC), where he once again demonstrated his athletic abilities by leading the Jayhawks in both sports. His batting average remained consistent at .350, and he contributed significantly to the NJCAA Tournament with the basketball team. Recognized for his excellence, Barone was named one of JCC’s “50 Greatest Athletes of All-Time.” These formative years instilled in him a deep understanding of teamwork, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence.

Academic Pursuits and Leadership Development

Transferring to Felician College in New Jersey, Barone further honed his skills and leadership qualities. Over two years, he maintained a stellar .352 batting average while striking out just 12 times in 261 at-bats. His commitment to academics earned him recognition as an Academic All-American. Serving as a two-time team captain, Barone learned the importance of guiding and motivating teammates—a skill that would prove invaluable in his future coaching endeavors.Upon returning to Jamestown CC as an assistant coach in 2001, Barone quickly made his mark. The Jayhawks reached the NJCAA World Series in 2004, solidifying Barone’s reputation as a skilled strategist. Promoted to head coach in 2005, he led the team to unprecedented success, accumulating 207 wins and securing five consecutive NJCAA Regional berths. In 2008, his efforts were rewarded with the Region 3 Coach of the Year award. Barone’s ability to inspire and lead was becoming increasingly apparent.

Professional Coaching and Championship Wins

Barone’s next move took him west to Cal State Bakersfield, where he worked as an assistant coach, focusing on pitchers and catchers. Despite the distance, his heart remained in Western New York, leading him to manage the Wellsville Nitros in the New York Collegiate Baseball League during the summer of 2013. His return to Jamestown in 2015 as manager of the Jamestown Jammers marked a significant milestone. Over four seasons, Barone guided the Jammers to three playoff appearances, two championship series, and ultimately the PGCBL title in 2018. His innovative strategies and player development programs earned him Manager of the Year honors twice.In 2019, Barone joined the Milwaukee Milkmen of the American Association of Professional Independent Baseball as hitting/bench coach. Within a year, he was promoted to manager, leading the team to the American Association championship. Under his guidance, the Milkmen secured playoff berths in 2021 and 2022, culminating in the Eastern Division title in 2023. With a current record of 251-209, Barone has overseen the advancement of 25 players to Major League Baseball teams. His expertise in player procurement, roster construction, and salary cap management has been instrumental in the team’s success.

International Influence and Global Reach

Beyond the confines of domestic leagues, Barone has left an indelible mark on the international stage. Coaching teams in Merida, Mexico, for the World Baseball Softball Confederation and in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with Baseball United, Barone has expanded his influence globally. These experiences have enriched his coaching philosophy, blending diverse strategies and techniques to elevate players and teams alike.

A Legacy of Passion and Perseverance

Anthony Barone’s career exemplifies the power of passion and perseverance. From his humble beginnings in Jamestown to managing elite teams in professional leagues, Barone has consistently demonstrated leadership, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to the sport. Living in Milwaukee during the baseball season and Jamestown during the offseason, he remains deeply connected to both worlds. As a 2025 Chautauqua Sports Hall of Fame inductee, Barone’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of athletes and coaches.