Chofu (Japan) City Little League kicked off its Little League Baseball® World Series tournament in dominant fashion, defeating Emilia (Italy) Little League, 20-0.
The Japan Region Champion had a slow start, but after a scoreless first inning Taishi Kawaguchi opening launched the offense witha solo home run. The Chofu City Little Leaguers would post 18 hits in the game, including a grand slam hit by Yuto Misaki in the fifth inning that lead to the team scoring 14 runs.
Japan started Ritsu Nishikawa on the mound, who threw for three innings before Yuto Kakeba came in, striking out three in the fourth inning. Yuto Misaki came in to throw one inning of relief, closing out the last three outs in the fifth inning to end the game via the 10-run rule.
Europe-Africa’s offense tallied a total of two hits, both by Christian Sberlati. Starting on the mound for Italy was Gulio Bissa, who struck out one and allowed five hits over three innings before Federico Tamburini came in. Federico was followed by Leonardo Delfrate, Christian, and Gabriele Ciriná.
Japan will continue their journey in the Little League World Series on Sunday, August 18 at 1 p.m. at Volunteer Stadium against the winner of Game7 between Mexico and Canada. Europe-Africa will fight to continue in the tournament on Saturday, August 17 at 6 p.m. in Volunteer Stadium against the loser of Game 7.
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