The Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, is known for creating unforgettable sports memories.
During the 2026 tournament, 12-year-old Kinley Rasmus from Phenix City, Alabama, is one of the young stars who has captured the attention of fans.
Playing as a pitcher and shortstop for the Southeast regional champions, Rasmus made history by stepping onto the diamond, becoming one of only 25 girls to ever play in the prestigious tournament.
On the mound, Rasmus pitched six scoreless innings against a tough team from Tacoma, Washington, striking out eight batters and allowing just one hit.
That performance tied the single-game strikeout record for a female pitcher at the Little League World Series, a record originally set by Mo’ne Davis in 2014.
Rasmus later added more strikeouts to bring her tournament total to 14, tying Davis’ record for the most strikeouts by a girl in the history of the event.
With the bat, Kinley also set a new tournament record for the most hits by a female player at the Little League World Series, showing her effectiveness on both sides of the ball.
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Rasmus broke the historic milestone on Tuesday, Aug. 25, during a 4-2 elimination-game victory over Washington. She went 2-for-3 in the matchup, recording her fifth tournament hit and surpassing the previous record.
The 12-year-old has also spoken about how grateful she is to have the opportunity to compete in the World Series.
“I’ve enjoyed every single second of this whole opportunity,” she said. “I’m so grateful that I get to be in this position because I know many are wishing to be here, and I’m just so grateful to be here.”
Who Is Kinley Rasmus’ Mom and Dad?
Ramus comes from a famous baseball family with deep roots in the sport. Her father, Cory Rasmus, pitched in the major leagues for the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Angels.
Speaking about his daughter, Cory explained the expectations surrounding her while also emphasizing how proud the family is of her.
“It’s our daughter, so we always probably have looked at her maybe even a little as better than she might have been.”
“But at the same time, we love her, we pull for her, and she’s found a way. Even at 5 and 6 years old, she played, and she’s always been this even-keeled kid that really isn’t afraid of the moment. So for her to continue to keep getting better and keep performing in big moments, it almost seems like nothing bothers her. It’s crazy to watch, but obviously we’re super proud.”
Kinley Rasmus’ Impressive Baseball Family
Kinley’s baseball connections extend beyond her father. Her uncle, Colby Rasmus, played 10 seasons in Major League Baseball as an outfielder, while another uncle, Jeff Mathis, spent 17 years as a catcher in the big leagues.
Even her grandfather, Tony Rasmus, has a connection to the tournament. He coached the Phenix City team that reached the Little League World Series final in 1999.
Kinley’s mother, Jill, was also an athlete, playing college softball at a high level for Southern Mississippi.
Despite her daughter’s growing popularity, Jill understands the importance of knowing when Kinley has reached her limit while also encouraging her to step outside her comfort zone.
“It’s a cool opportunity, but also, as her parents, just to try to know when to draw the line or when she’s had enough. But at the same time, a lot of little kids are looking up to her, and I try to push her to do things out of her comfort zone.”
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