Benny Distefano was born on January 23, 1962, in Brooklyn, New York. He was raised in the bustling city, where he developed a love for baseball at a young age. Distefano attended Lafayette High School, where he honed his skills on the baseball field.
Distefano's talent on the baseball diamond caught the attention of scouts, and he was signed by the Pittsburgh Pirates as an amateur free agent. He made his MLB debut with the Pirates in 1984, where he played as a first baseman and corner outfielder. Distefano spent four seasons with the Pirates, showcasing his power at the plate and solid defensive skills.
In 1989, Distefano joined the Houston Astros for a season before hanging up his cleats as a player. Throughout his career, he was known for his versatility on the field and his ability to come through in clutch situations.
After retiring from playing, Distefano transitioned into coaching. In 2010, he joined the New York Mets' single-A affiliate, the Brooklyn Cyclones, as their hitting coach. Distefano brought his wealth of knowledge and experience to the role, helping young players develop their skills and reach their full potential.
Off the field, Distefano is a proud Brooklyn native. He continues to be involved in the baseball community, sharing his passion for the game with the next generation of players. Distefano's dedication to the sport and his leadership qualities have made him a respected figure in the baseball world.
One of the highlights of Distefano's career came in 1992 when he faced off against Mets right-hander David Cone. Cone had a no-hitter through seven innings, but Distefano ended the bid with an infield single in the eighth. It was a tense moment that showcased Distefano's ability to come through in pressure situations.
While Distefano's playing career may have been relatively short, his impact on the game continues to be felt. His dedication to the sport, both as a player and a coach, has left a lasting impression on those who have had the privilege of working with him. Benny Distefano will always be remembered as a true baseball talent who brought his all to the field every time he played.