Kinley Rasmus ties Mo'ne Davis' record for most strikeouts by a girl during a Little League World Series game

In 2014, Mo’ne Davis captivated Little League World Series watchers by becoming the first girl to earn a win and notch a shutout in the event. Eleven years later, it wasn’t a major surprise when Davis was a high pick in the first-ever Women’s Pro Baseball League draft.

After just one game, Kinley Rasmus appears to be on that same path. Rasmus started Phenix City’s first game at the 2026 Little League World Series, and managed to tie a record held by Davis in that start.

Rasmus struck out eight batters during a dominant outing, which also saw her post six scoreless innings, giving up just one hit and two walks.
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After her pitching day was done, Rasmus moved over to shortstop, where she made a leaping catch to keep runs off the board late.

Despite her efforts, Phenix City fell 2-0 to Tacoma on Wednesday. Phenix City picked up just one hit in the loss.

Rasmus’ name should probably sound familiar. She’s actually the daughter of former MLB pitcher Cory Rasmus and the niece of former MLB outfielder Colby Rasmus. Cory actually serves as an assistant on Phenix City’s coaching staff, and previously played for the team during the 1999 Little League World Series. Colby also played on Phenix City’s 1999 Little League World Series team.

The history of girls playing in the Little League World Series isn’t that long. Over the event’s 79-year history, only 25 girls have appeared in the tournament. Rasmus is one of two participating in 2026. The other, Carsynn Meyer, plays for Paseo Verde, which will open play Thursday.

Following their loss in Game 1, Phenix City will play at least one more game in the tournament. Another loss would eliminate the team from the event. Phenix City’s next game is slated to take place Saturday, where they’ll play the loser of Game 8 between the West and the Midwest. That contest will take place Thursday.