Kinley Rasmus Sets Records at Little League World Series

Twelve-year-old Kinley Rasmus helped secure a top-six U.S. finish for Phenix City at the Little League World Series after leading her team to a 6-5 comeback victory against Pennsylvania on August 24, 2026, in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Rasmus pitched 4 ⅔ shutout innings in relief, drove in the game-tying run, and executed two key defensive plays to prevent elimination. Over 26 ⅔ innings pitched this summer, she has surrendered just three earned runs for a 0.70 ERA alongside three total walks.

As one of only 25 female players in the 79-year history of the event, Rasmus tied single-game and tournament female strikeout records with eight and 14 strikeouts, respectively. She also became the fifth girl to record multiple tournament hits and the first to log an extra-base hit.

Her father, former Major League Baseball pitcher Cory Rasmus, noted her composure on the field emerged at an early age.

"It's our daughter, so we always probably have looked at her maybe even a little as better than she might have been," said Cory Rasmus.

Cory Rasmus won the 1999 Little League World Series U.S. title with Phenix City before his professional career.

"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," said Cory Rasmus.

The young athlete balances widespread public attention at the tournament while concentrating on competition.

"I've enjoyed every single second of this whole opportunity," said Kinley Rasmus. "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."

Her mother, former Southern Mississippi softball player Jill Rasmus, manages media requests as her daughter's popularity expands.

"We definitely didn't know what to expect coming in," said Jill Rasmus. "You know, like she said, definitely grateful to be here. 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."

Jill Rasmus prioritizes her daughter's well-being while navigating public appearances.

"I think it's good for her to get out and talk to people and do these interviews, even though she may not want to.I feel like I know when enough is enough. I can tell when she's tired or gets tired of it, and I feel like we can kind of draw the line and do which ones are best or whatever," said Jill Rasmus.

Though competing in baseball this summer, Rasmus projects as a top softball prospect in the class of 2032 and will serve as starting quarterback for Central-Phenix City High School's flag football team this fall.

"I've always wore a bow since I was a little girl," said Kinley Rasmus.