Lamar Little League’s first LLWS journey in 21 years concluded with a 7-3 loss to Braintree (Mass.). The Richmond squad surged early, with Sontag starting the attack by singling to left followed by a Williams sacrifice, Carlisle delivering an RBI single, and back-to-back hits from Disselkoen and Helmke to make it 2-0. A rolling sequence of errors opened the door for a two-run triple by McCarthy, putting Braintree ahead 3-2. The visitors extended the lead to 5-2 in the second, Lamar loaded the bases in the third but couldn’t capitalize, and Trotta’s two-run hit pushed the margin to 7-2. Sontag’s third hit in the fifth plated Miller to cut the deficit to 7-3, but the rally stalled. This marked Lamar’s LLWS return, their first since a third-place finish behind Mexico after Grichuk’s run, a reminder of the program’s enduring pipeline to elite youth baseball.

In the broader LLWS lore, Lamar’s matchup featured a mix of early offense and late-inning blocks, with key performances from in-game catalysts like Carlisle on the mound and Sontag at the plate. The game showcased the high-leverage moments that define youth tournaments: misplayed balls turning into scoring chances, runners navigating bases loaded situations, and timely hits bending momentum. The loss ends a historic dip into Williamsport for the Richmond program, echoing its prior LLWS chapter and underscoring the pathways young players traverse toward college or pro levels. Matthew Richards filed from Houston with the recap.

KC sits four games back of the Yankees in the AL Wild Card race as they chase a late-season push. Jac Caglianone, the Royals’ 2024 top pick, is on the 10-day injured list with a left hamstring strain; a rehab assignment could start next week as he attempts to reset his timing after a rough MLB debut (.147/.485 OPS in 150 at-bats). In his absence, Randal Grichuk has taken over right field duties. Kansas City has won four of its last five, including wins over playoff contenders, signaling a potential late surge if Caglianone returns healthy and productive.

The Royals’ veteran depth, combined with Grichuk’s steady defense and occasional power, provide a path for momentum while the rookie recalibrates. Manager Matt Quatraro gave an encouraging update on the plan, underscoring the franchise’s hope that a month away from the majors could help Caglianone regain his form and confidence. With the Yankees looming, Kansas City must navigate pitching injuries and stay in the mix as the stretch drive unfolds.

Lamar Little League from Richmond has earned its place at the Little League World Series, triumphing over Eastbank of Kenner, Louisiana, with a final score of 5-2 during the Southwest Regional championship game held at Waco’s Norcross Stadium. The decisive moment came in the fifth inning, where a two-run surge propelled Lamar to victory. This marks the third time in four years that a Houston area team has reached Williamsport.

Brayden Carlisle excelled on the mound, giving up only two runs across 4 ⅔ innings with five strikeouts, while Joseph Miller secured the save with a solid performance in relief. Michael Frankie contributed significantly to the offense, driving in crucial runs. Lamar's journey to Williamsport kicks off on August 13.

In a thrilling contest, the Los Angeles Dodgers edged out the Arizona Diamondbacks 14-11, cementing their lead in the NL West. The highlight of the night came from Shohei Ohtani, who hit a pivotal three-run homer in the ninth inning, showcasing both power and emotion rarely seen from the usually composed superstar. Ohtani's blast was a significant moment in a game that saw the lead change hands multiple times, with both teams showing offensive prowess.

The Diamondbacks initially led 3-1 in the first but faltered as the Dodgers surged ahead with a five-run third inning. However, Arizona rallied to tie the game at 8-8 before taking an 11-8 lead late in the game. The Dodgers, showing resilience, responded in the ninth with a four-hit rally off Diamondbacks' pitcher Kevin Ginkel, ultimately setting the stage for Ohtani's dramatic home run. Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts drew comparisons between Ohtani and Barry Bonds, emphasizing his unique ability to perform consistently in clutch situations.