On a warm July evening in Connecticut, the Darien Little League baseball team etched a milestone into its program's history by securing the Section 1 title with a 10-2 triumph over Southington. The victory, achieved on July 24, 2026, marked the first sectional championship in the team's existence and propelled the squad into the State Final Four.
Key Performances that Defined the Game
Third baseman Rex Paquette ignited the offense with a three-run double in the opening inning, while starting pitcher Chase Sutter delivered a stellar four-inning outing that included seven strikeouts. Reliever Jack Houlihan closed the game by pitching the final two frames and fanning five batters, sealing the win.
The offensive firepower continued beyond the early innings. Darien's No. 2, 3, and 4 batters combined for a 6-for-6 performance, scoring five runs and contributing to the team's 35-run output across four sectional tournament games.
Leadership and Team Spirit
Manager John Butler, who guided the squad throughout the tournament, highlighted the team's resilience and determination in the post-game interview. "This group showed heart in every at-bat and every pitch," Butler said, emphasizing the collective effort that defined their campaign.
The victory also featured a notable moment from Southington's Will Hirsch, who launched a home run in the first inning, adding a spark to the contest before Darien's rally took control.
Looking Ahead to the State Final Four
Darien will now face Section 2 runner-up Madison in the State Final Four, a matchup that promises to test the team's newly forged confidence against a formidable opponent. The upcoming game represents not only a personal milestone for players such as Rex Paquette, Chase Sutter, and Jack Houlihan but also a historic moment for the organization as a whole.
Beyond the on-field achievements, the championship underscores the role of community support and the broader ecosystem of Connecticut Little League Baseball, which has nurtured the team's development over the years.