Garrett Gallegos played a crucial role in leading Summerlin South to victory in the Little League World Series losers bracket final against Irmo, South Carolina. His impressive three-run homer in the sixth inning propelled the team to a 5-3 win and secured their spot in the U.S. championship game. This pivotal game is set to take place against Fairfield, Connecticut, with the winner advancing to compete for the overall LLWS championship.
Summerlin South, representing the Mountain Region, follows in the footsteps of Mountain Ridge, the only other Nevada team to have reached the U.S. title game in 2014. Coach TJ Fechser attributed their success to a combination of focus and determination. Gallegos, who had two hits and four RBIs, expressed heartfelt emotions about his game-changing homer, describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Starting pitcher Cache Malan gave a strong performance, striking out seven in 4⅔ innings, further supported by the team’s tactical plays, including a double steal and a crucial pick-off by reserve catcher Gray Miranda. Despite challenges, such as a solo home run by Irmo and a bases-loaded walk, Summerlin South’s resilience shone through.
With a postseason record of 14-1 and a 4-1 record in the LLWS, Summerlin South is set to face Connecticut again, hoping to avenge their previous loss and advance to the final showdown. Gallegos is expected to start Saturday’s crucial game, holding the aspirations of becoming the best team in the USA.
