A Little League team from New Jersey saw its hopes of heading to Williamsport dashed after a bat flip during a state tournament match. Marcorocco, a 12-year-old player from Haddon Field Little League, celebrated a two-run home run against Harrison Township Little League by flipping his bat into the air.
This homer put Haddonfield up 8-0, leading to a victory that secured them the Section 4 title and a spot in the state championship. However, after rounding the bases, Marcorocco was ejected due to “safety concerns,” as shared by his father, Joe Rocco.
Joe mentioned that they received a letter stating there are rules against such celebrations in Little League. “Little League International promotes excitement on social media and through broadcasts during the World Series,” he remarked. “My son was just mimicking what he saw.”
In an effort to reverse the suspension, a temporary restraining order was filed in Gloucester County; however, Joe noted that Little League International seems unwilling to negotiate.
“He’s been playing Little League all his life, and reaching the World Series is his dream,” Joe added, feeling frustrated. “Now, in the state finals, they’re telling him he can’t play.” Haddonfield and Harrison had already faced each other twice earlier in July, splitting those games before Haddonfield’s recent victory.
Haddonfield’s tournament journey continued with a match against Elmora. The Little League World Series had previously seen Haddonfield participate back in 2019. As the New Jersey tournament includes a double-elimination format for the four teams, they still have hope. Meanwhile, Ridgewood and Jackson-Holbrook Little Leagues also advanced to the state finals, having beaten their respective opponents.
The bracket winner will proceed to Bristol, Connecticut, seeking to represent the Metro region in the Little League World Series.
