A Historic Showdown in Williamsport
The eyes of the baseball world will converge on Lamade Stadium in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, as the 2026 Little League Baseball World Series pits Alabama’s Phenix City against Washington’s Soundview Little League in a clash of regional champions.
Phenix City, Alabama, arrives after a dominant run through the Southeast Region, where it posted a perfect 4‑0 record, highlighted by a three‑hit shutout from pitcher Kinley Rasmus that struck out eight batters. The victory marks Alabama’s first regional title since 2002 and sets the stage for a historic return to the World Series stage.
Across the country, Soundview Little League from Tacoma, Washington, has etched its name into tournament lore by capturing the Northwest Region championship for the sixth consecutive year, a feat that has never been achieved by any Washington team. The squad, making its first appearance on the World Series stage, was led by Rhonan Loomis, who went three‑for‑three, and Francis McCabe, who fanned ten batters over 4.2 innings.
Key moments from the regional finals underscored the drama: Urijah Berklite delivered an RBI single and a daring home‑base steal for Alabama, while Washington’s Paxton Hansen sparked an 8‑5 victory over Eagle, Idaho, with a two‑run single that turned the tide. Both teams have demonstrated depth, resilience, and the ability to perform under the bright lights of regional competition.
The game will be broadcast live on ESPN, with a streaming alternative provided by Fubo for viewers who prefer digital access. The winner of the matchup will advance to face Boerne, Texas, on Friday, while the loser will meet the survivor of the Thursday showdown between Bonita, California, and Davenport, Iowa, on Saturday.
Beyond the scoresheet, the encounter represents more than a battle for a trophy; it is a narrative of perseverance, regional pride, and the next generation of talent vying for a place in Little League history.