Bisons, Rich Baseball Operations help fund Sal Maglie Mural in Niagara Falls

A great former Bisons pitcher who became one of the best Major Leaguers every to come out of the Western New York region is now being celebrated with a new mural on the side of DeFazio's Stadium Grill in Niagara Falls.

On June 19, President of Rich Entertainment Group, Joe Segarra, and President of Rich Baseball Operations, Mike Buczkowski, presented a check to DeFazio's owner, Ron DeFazio, for the completion of a Sal Maglie mural in the side of the 1234 Hyde Park Boulevard establishment. The mural was also partially funded by a Niagara Falls Corporation business grant.

The mural was completed this month by the talented Alessandra Price of Grand Island. During the check presentation Alessandra read a statement to those in attendance, in part saying,” Today, we gather here to celebrate history, art, and hometown pride. This mural holds great significance to me, as an artist who deeply values and seeks to highlight our local history. It is an honor to have had the opportunity to create this piece, inspired by the life and legacy of Sal Maglie, a pitcher born and laid to rest right here in Niagara Falls, New York. But this project carries even greater personal meaning. The location of the mural on the side of the Stadium Grill holds a special place in my heart. It was a favorite of my great uncles, and I wanted to pay tribute to the cherished memories for those here and the ones who have passed.”

Sal “The Barber” Maglie was a native of Niagara Falls, with a major league career that spanned over ten years. Maglie had 119 wins, 862 strikeouts, and a 3.15 earned run average and was the only player ever to play on all three New York City teams. Prior to his Major League career, Maglie pitched in three seasons with the Bisons, 1938-1940.

DeFazio’s Stadium Grill is located across the street from Sal Maglie Stadium, dedicated forty years ago this week in honor of the most famous major league baseball player in the history of Niagara Falls.