Kinley Rasmus, Carsynn Meyer set to play in Little League World Series
Sam Cardona-Norberg shares information on the two girls playing in the Little League World Series: Kinley Rasmus for Alabama and Carsynn Meyer for Nevada.
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Editor’s note: Follow USA TODAY’s live coverage of Little League World Series Aug. 19 games here.
Alabama’s first trip to the Little League World Series of the 21st century has some pretty stellar storylines behind it, particularly the presence of one Kinley Rasmus.
The daughter of former MLB pitcher Cory Rasmus and niece to 10-year veteran outfielder Colby Rasmus, Kinley dominated the Southeast regional tournament, even throwing a complete game shutout in the championship game.
However, Williamsport offers a whole new level of challenge. The players are better, each winners of their own regional tournaments. Could Rasmus hold up against tougher opponents?
Well, if her team’s first game against Washington is any indication … absolutely she can.
Kinley Rasmus stats vs. Washington
Rasmus has been outstanding on the mound, pitching six shutout innings with eight strikeouts, tying Mo’ne Davis’ record from 2014 for the most strikeouts in a game by a girl at the Little League World Series. She allowed just one hit and two walks in the outing.
At the plate, Rasmus also drew one walk across two plate appearances.
Rasmus’ shutout performance was not enough to guarantee the win though. As both teams were held scoreless, Rasmus was pulled after six innings and 81 pitches. Her cousin, Ryker Rasmus, came in to replace her in the seventh.
When does Alabama play next?
With the 2-0 loss, Alabama’s next game will be on Aug. 22. They’ll face elimination, squaring off against whoever loses the Aug. 20 game between California and Iowa.