(Editor’s note: This story was updated to add new information. Kinley Rasmus’ cousin, Ryker Rasmus, got the starting nod for Alabama’s game against Pennsylvania. Kinley entered the game in the third inning as Phenix City trailed 5-0.)
The world was introduced to the pitching talents of Kinley Rasmus last week as she threw a one-hit game in Phenix City’s Little League World Series opener.
Baseball fans might get another look at her on Monday, Aug. 24, depending on who gets the starting nod in Phenix City’s third game of the Little League World Series against Pennsylvania.
Although she contributed in the batting lineup and at shortstop, Rasmus was unable to go on the hill on Saturday, Aug. 22 in Phenix City’s elimination game, which was secured by a six-strikeout performance from Urijah Berklite. In the 2-0 loss to Washington in Game 1, Rasmus threw 81 pitches. Per Little League rules, any pitcher who throws between 66 to 85 pitches must take four days of rest.
Rasmus last played on Wednesday, Aug. 19, meaning she would be able to pitch Phenix City’s game against Pennsylvania.
Other available pitchers listed on Phenix City’s roster include Ryker Rasmus, Kinley’s cousin, and Jerry Taylor, who also plays first base. Utility players include Easton Allen, Cedric Harrison Jr. and Berklite, but the latter of the trio is unable to pitch due to mandatory rest.
Through six innings in Phenix City’s opener, Rasmus — the daughter of former MLB pitcher Cory Rasmus —struck out eight, tying the Little League World Series record for most strikeouts in a single game by a girl.
Whether Rasmus is in the infield or on the bump, Phenix City will take on East Side Little League at 6 p.m. CT, Monday, Aug. 24 on ESPN.
Emilee Smarr covers Alabama basketball and Crimson Tide athletics for The Tuscaloosa News. She can be reached via email at esmarr@usatodayco.com.