Phenix City, Alabama's Kinley Rasmus is making waves at the Little League World Series, becoming one of the few girls to compete in the tournament and tying a notable record. The 12-year-old pitcher recorded eight strikeouts in a single game during the team's 2-0 loss to Washington, a feat not achieved by a female player since Mo'ne Davis in 2014.
Rasmus allowed only one hit during her time on the mound and also made a run-saving catch at shortstop. Her performance has been instrumental in helping Phenix City reach the Little League World Series for the first time in 27 years. The team will need a victory in the loser's bracket on Saturday to continue their World Series aspirations.
Rasmus's presence in the tournament is part of a larger trend, as she is only the 25th girl to ever play in the Little League World Series. Her family has deep baseball roots; her father is former major league pitcher Cory Rasmus, and her uncle is veteran outfielder Colby Rasmus. Her uncle, Case Rasmus, also coaches the Phenix City team and played in the minor leagues.
Rasmus's signature look on the field is a large white bow in her hair, which she and her teammates have turned into a rallying cry. The phrase "Fear the Bow" reflects the confidence and excitement the team feels when she is playing. "When I hear people say that it, it just brings joy to me," Rasmus told ESPN. "Knowing that they’ve got my back and everything I do on the field and it just gives me so much excitement."
