Phenix City, Ala., is heading back to the Little League World Series for the first time since 1999, and a family rich with both LLWS and MLB history is at the forefront.
Kinley Rasmus, the daughter of former big league pitcher Cory Rasmus, threw a complete-game shutout to help lead her squad, 4-0, over Tennessee in the Southeast Region final. She racked up eight strikeouts through her six innings and allowed just three hits.
Phenix City went 4-0 in the regional tournament, and Rasmus pitched in three of four games without allowing a run. She delivered two innings in the tournament opener and one inning to wrap things up in the semifinal.
And not only did she star on the mound, but Rasmus also hit out of the No. 2 spot for Phenix City throughout the tournament and played shortstop when not pitching. She went 6-for-8 at the dish with four walks, scoring four runs and knocking in a pair.
- WATCH: Rasmus' 8 strikeouts
- WATCH: Rasmus' RBI single
Tony Rasmus, Kinley’s grandfather, was the coach of the 1999 Phenix City team. Led by Tony’s sons and future big leaguers Cory and Colby, they won the United States Championship but fell to Japan in the World Championship.
Younger Rasmus brother Case, who was not old enough for the team in 1999, is now the head coach of the 2026 Phenix City team. Cory is also with the 2026 team as an assistant coach.
Meanwhile, Case’s son and Kinley’s cousin, Ryker, also plays on this year’s team. He was the primary first baseman through the regional and pitched in two games.
Phenix City and the Rasmus family will begin their 2026 Little League World Series quest in South Williamsport, Pa., on Aug. 19. They’ll square off with the winners of the Northwest Region, who will be decided in Thursday’s regional championship.