Little League World Series: Day 1 Recap

The 2017 Little League World Series began Thursday with four games. Here’s a look at the action from Williamsport, along with Friday’s schedule.

Thursday’s Games
Venezuela 4, Mexico 1
Connecticut 7, New Jersey 6
Canada 12, Italy 2 (four innings, run rule)
Texas 5, Michigan 1

Friday’s Schedule (All times EST)

2 p.m.—Japan vs. Australia (ESPN)

4 p.m.—Washington vs. California (ESPN)

6 p.m.—Dominican Republic vs. South Korea (ESPN)

8 p.m.—South Dakota vs. North Carolina (ESPN)

(Photo by Alex Trautwig/Getty Images)

U.S. Player of the Day—Hunter Ditsworth, Texas

While Connecticut’s Matthew Vivona had a big day at the plate on his 13th birthday (2-for-3, two RBIs), the U.S. Player of the day got it done all over the field, leading Texas to a win. At the plate, the 5-foot-11 Ditsworth went 2-for-3 with a double and a two-run home run. His two RBIs proved to be enough to lead Texas to victory as he shut down the Michigan bats, throwing a complete game while allowing just a run on two hits. The righthander struck out eight while walking none. Texas moves on to face New England in the winners’ bracket on Sunday.

Photo Courtesy of Alex Trautwig/Getty Images

International Player of the Day—Chase Marshall, Canada 20

Canada’s Chase Marshall blasted his way to the International player of the day honor with a powerful day at the plate in Canada’s mercy-rule victory over Italy. In the four-inning game, Chase went 3-for-3 with two home runs and five RBIs. The 6-footer also pitched 1.2 scoreless innings in picking up the win. Canada moves on in the winners’ bracket to play Venezuela on Sunday.

BA Intern Conor Hynes contributed to this report