The California team's run in the Little League World Series came to a controversial end Friday with a 1-0 loss to Iowa, decided by a final pitch that sparked widespread debate. Iowa starting pitcher Cooper Thissen dominated California, striking out 15 batters and not allowing a hit through 5 ⅓ innings.
Thissen was removed from the game in the sixth inning due to pitch count limitations, with Iowa leading 1-0. California managed to load the bases with two outs against relief pitcher Anthony Johnson Jr. On a 3-2 count, Johnson threw a curveball that many observers and social media users believed was outside the strike zone.
Instead of the pitch being ruled a ball, which would have tied the game, the home plate umpire called it strike three. This call sealed Iowa's victory and secured a combined no-hitter for the team.
The final pitch call quickly went viral, with many questioning its accuracy, even by Little League standards. The California team, representing Sweetwater Valley Little League in Bonita, California, will now compete in the U.S. elimination bracket. Iowa represents the Davenport Northwest Little League from Davenport, Iowa.