Fairfield National’s Little League World Series Journey Ends with Loss to Las Vegas

Connecticut’s Fairfield National Little League concluded its inspiring journey in the Little League World Series after a tough 8-2 defeat against Summerlin South Little League from Las Vegas. The pivotal U.S. title game took place on Saturday in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, marking the end of a remarkable season for Fairfield.

Game Highlights

Early Advantage for Las Vegas

Las Vegas wasted no time, seizing the lead in the top of the first inning:

• Scoring Surge: The team scored three runs propelled by a wild pitch and a two-run single from Grayson Miranda.

Fairfield responded quickly with a score of its own, as Jimmy Taxiltaridis hit an infield single to bring a runner home. However, Garrett Gallegos, the Vegas starter, successfully stranded two runners on base, limiting further damage.

Steady Increase in Tension

As the game progressed, Las Vegas bolstered their lead:

• Gallegos Home Run: In the fourth inning, Gallegos launched a deep home run, pushing the score to 4-1.
• Fairfield Struggles: Despite scoring another run in the fourth, Fairfield faced setbacks; a slick play by Vegas shortstop Ethan Robertson stopped a potential big inning.

Defining Fifth and Sixth Inning Plays

The fifth inning proved tense for Vegas when Gallegos walked two batters. In a critical moment, he tagged out Ben Herbst in a rundown at third base, maintaining their 4-2 lead.

The top of the sixth saw Las Vegas pull away with:

• Insurance Runs: A double from Cache Malan brought in a run, followed by a bases-loaded hit by pitch from Banks Mossle.
• Game-Widening Single: Cutter Ricafort delivered a bases-loaded single, driving in two more runs.

Pitching Duel

Both pitchers put forth strong performances:

• Luca Pellegrini (Fairfield): Pitched 5 ¹/₃ innings, allowing five runs on eight hits.
• Garrett Gallegos (Las Vegas): Threw five innings with only two runs (one earned) on five hits, striking out eight.

In the final inning, Luke D’Ambrosio came in to close out the game, securing the U.S. title for Las Vegas.

Key Players

Las Vegas found its offensive groove primarily through standout performances:

• Cache Malan: Contributed crucial hits, providing vital runs.

• Garrett Gallegos: Described the exhilarating atmosphere post-game, stating, "The energy of the crowd just made me feel so great today. It was just so amazing.”

Fairfield’s Remarkable Season

Fairfield’s run came just days after a significant victory against Las Vegas, winning 7-3 to earn their spot in the U.S. title game. The team previously overcame a tough challenge against South Carolina, winning 5-3 to make it to the championship match.

Looking Ahead

Las Vegas will now face Chinese Taipei in the Little League World Series final on Sunday at 3 p.m. Gallegos acknowledges the challenge ahead, stating, “It’s going to be a tough game; they got some really good hitters and really good pitchers.”

Chinese Taipei secured their place in the final following a narrow 1-0 victory against Aruba in the international title game.

Historic Ambitions

Should they win, it will mark the first Little League World Series title for Nevada. The potential achievement adds to the excitement surrounding Las Vegas as they look to make history.

For more updates on the Little League World Series, visit Little League.