Fairfield National Eliminated from Little League World Series

Connecticut’s Fairfield National team has seen its hopes for the Little League World Series come to an end.

They were eliminated by the Summerlin South Little League from Las Vegas in the US title game, losing 8-2 in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Las Vegas jumped out to an early lead, scoring three runs in the first inning, aided by Grayson Miranda’s wild pitch and a two-run single.

Fairfield managed to respond in the second inning with an infield hit from Jimmy Taxiltalidis, but Las Vegas pitcher Garrett Gallegos struck out the next two batters, halting any further threat.

Nevada continued to build on its lead in the fourth inning, highlighted by a deep homer from Gallegos.

Fairfield did score another run in the bottom of the fourth, but they were held back by a smooth play from Vegas shortstop Ethan Robertson, who tagged a runner out at second base.

In the fifth inning, things became tense for Vegas as Gallegos walked two batters, putting his team in a tough spot. He struggled a bit, but only allowed the score to sit at 4-2 after another batter was hit.

In the sixth inning, Nevada added some insurance runs when Cash Malan hit a double that scored Dustin Greusell. Cutterlica Fort then broke the game open with a single that pushed the score to 8-2.

Fairfield’s starting pitcher, Luca Peregrini, went 5¹/₃ innings, allowing five runs on three hits. Gallegos, on the other hand, pitched five innings, gave up two runs on two hits, and struck out eight batters.

In a strong finish, Luke Dunbrosio closed out the game with a perfect final inning, securing the US title and bringing an end to Fairfield’s remarkable run.

Las Vegas received notable performances from several players, particularly Maran and Gallegos, who combined for four hits, four runs, and two RBIs.

“The energy of the crowd really pumped me up,” Gallegos shared after the game. “I felt so excited, and it was an amazing experience.”

This loss for Fairfield comes just days after they defeated Vegas 7-3 to secure their place in the US title match.

Las Vegas played the title game against South Carolina prior to facing Fairfield, winning 5-3.

Next up, they are set to compete against Chinese Taipei in the championship game on Sunday at 3 PM. Gallegos acknowledged the challenge ahead: “They’re very strong, with excellent hitters and pitchers.”

Chinese Taipei clinched their spot by defeating Alba 1-0 in the international title game.

Las Vegas is now aspiring to become the first team from Nevada to win the Little League World Series.