With a stunning fifth-inning surge, Chinese Taipei defeated Nevada 7-0 in the Little League World Series (LLWS) final. Representing the Asia-Pacific region, the team clinched its 18th championship title, with pitcher Li Chin-Tse earning MVP honors.
The U.S. team reached the final in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, backed by passionate fans and a dominant offensive performance throughout the tournament. Pitcher Garrett Gallegos had been their ace, but LLWS rules barred him from pitching in the championship game.
Chinese Taipei’s journey to the final was different but equally impressive. With lights-out pitching, sharp defense, and clutch hitting, the team breezed through the international bracket, entrusting Chin-Tse to start the final.
Fifth-inning explosion seals the deal
The game began as a pitching duel between Chin-Tse and Nevada starter Luke D’Ambrosio. But D’Ambrosio struggled, issuing wild pitches and walking batters that led to runs in the second and third innings.
While Chin-Tse held Nevada scoreless through five innings, D’Ambrosio was replaced in the fifth by Jayden Lee, who couldn’t contain Chinese Taipei’s offense. Chin-Tse himself smashed a bases-loaded triple and later scored on an American infield error, locking in the final score of 7-0.
Chinese Taipei’s legacy of LLWS dominance
Chinese Taipei has long been a powerhouse in the LLWS, now boasting 18 titles. Their last championship came in 1996, when they defeated a team from Rhode Island.
This victory also ends an eight-year streak of American dominance. The last international team to win before Chinese Taipei was Japan in 2017.
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