In South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, the atmosphere was electric as everything appeared to be going Texas’ way during the U.S. bracket title game at the Little League World Series. The Southwest region champions held a commanding 4-0 lead over Florida in the third inning, with Texas starting pitcher Julian Hurst dominating the game without giving up a hit.
However, the tides turned dramatically as Florida rallied back. After three lead changes, Florida emerged victorious with a 10-7 win, thanks in part to a crucial two-run double by Luis Calo in the sixth inning, securing their spot in the championship game on Sunday.
Manager Jonathan Anderson expressed his pride in his team’s preparation and dedication, stating, “We’ve prepared for this, we’ve worked for this. It’s been our summer.”
Florida, representing the Southeast region, will face Taiwan, who won their semifinal match against Venezuela with a score of 4-1. This marks Florida’s first appearance in the championship game since 2003, when East Boynton Beach lost to Musashi-Fuchi of Japan.
Texas initially seemed in control after a two-run double from Doc Mogford pushed their lead to 4-0. However, Florida’s comeback began when James Feliciano managed an RBI single, igniting a four-run rally led by Teraj Alexander’s daring steal of home, which gave Florida a brief 5-4 lead.
Despite Texas regaining the lead with three runs, Florida entered the sixth inning trailing 7-5. Jacob Bibaud’s timely ground ball and subsequent runs from Liam Morrisey and Luis Calo gave Florida the advantage. After Calo’s key hit, Morrisey, running for Calo, scored after a defensive error allowed the ball to roll away.
Anderson concluded with a motivational message to his team, affirming their journey: “I know I pushed them hard… But here we are, boys, here we are. Job’s not done. We got one more. But boy, are we close.”