Williamsport, Pennsylvania, August 15, 2025
News Summary
Braintree, representing New England, faced a challenging start in the Little League World Series, suffering a shutout defeat by Irmo, South Carolina, with a score of 13-0. The game ended early under the mercy rule, showcasing Irmo’s dominance, mainly due to their pitcher Joe Giulietti’s impressive performance. Braintree managed just one hit in the game. The team will move into the elimination bracket and prepare to face Lamar, Texas, in their next game.
Braintree, Massachusetts faced a tough defeat on Thursday as they were shut out 13-0 by Irmo, South Carolina in their opening game of the Little League World Series. The match took place in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, marking a challenging start for Braintree, which represents the New England region in the prestigious tournament.
The game concluded early after four innings due to the mercy rule, a measure in Little League play that ends the game when one team is ahead by 10 or more runs after four innings. Irmo, which is the Southeast champion, wasted no time asserting its dominance on the field.
Irmo’s pitcher, Joe Giulietti, delivered a stellar performance, pitching 3â…“ innings without allowing a hit. He tallied an impressive eight strikeouts but did walk three batters. The Braintree team, on the other hand, struggled offensively, managing only one hit throughout the game, which came from starter Colman Gouthro.
Braintree began the game with Gouthro on the mound, but he was pulled from the game in the second inning after yielding seven runs on six hits while giving up three walks and striking out three batters. Following him, Henry Kuka took over pitching duties and allowed six runs on just two hits, along with four walks. Owen Kippenhan closed the game for Braintree, recording two outs but allowing one walk and earning one strikeout.
Scoring details unfolded as follows:
- 1st Inning: Irmo scored 2 runs (Score: South Carolina 2, Braintree 0).
- 2nd Inning: South Carolina scored 6 runs (Score: South Carolina 8, Braintree 0).
- 3rd Inning: South Carolina added 5 more runs (Final Score: South Carolina 13, Braintree 0).
This loss sends Braintree into the elimination bracket of the tournament, and they are set to face Lamar, Texas, the Southwest champion, on Saturday at 3 p.m. Braintree had recently claimed the New England title, achieving a dramatic walk-off victory against Bedford, New Hampshire.
The community in Braintree has rallied around the team, showing strong support as excitement builds. Local restaurant SouthSide Tavern has even curated special menu items named after players to celebrate their participation in the tournament.
The Little League World Series runs from August 13-24 and features a total of 10 teams from the U.S., competing in a modified double-elimination format. If Braintree wins on Saturday, they have the chance to advance and potentially reach the U.S. Final scheduled for August 23, with the championship game set for August 24.
Summary of Key Features
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Team | Braintree American Little League |
| Opponent | Irmo, South Carolina |
| Score | 13-0 (South Carolina wins) |
| Location | Williamsport, Pennsylvania |
| Next Opponent | Lamar, Texas |
| Date of Next Game | August 19, 3 p.m. |
| Little League World Series Dates | August 13-24 |
FAQs
What is the Little League World Series?
The Little League World Series is an annual baseball tournament for children, featuring teams from various regions competing for the championship title.
What does the mercy rule entail?
The mercy rule allows a game to end early if one team is ahead by a certain number of runs, typically 10 or more, after a specified number of innings.
Who did Braintree compete against in their first game?
Braintree faced Irmo, South Carolina, in their opening game.
When is Braintree’s next game?
Braintree is scheduled to play against Lamar, Texas, on August 19 at 3 p.m.
Can Braintree still win the championship?
Yes, Braintree will enter the elimination bracket and has the chance to continue competing for the championship title.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Irmo All-Stars Deliver Historic Victory in Little League World Series
Irmo All-Stars Dominates Braintree in Little League World Series Debut
Irmo Little League Dominates Braintree in LLWS Opener
Braintree American Little League Competes in LLWS
Braintree Little League Faces Tough Loss in World Series
Irmo Advances in Little League World Series with Dominant Win
Little League World Series Set to Begin in Pennsylvania
Braintree American Little League Prepares for LLWS Showdown
Braintree American Little League Wins First State Title
Little League Baseball World Series Kicks Off in Pennsylvania
Additional Resources
- WCVB: Braintree Little League World Series
- Wikipedia: Little League World Series
- Patriot Ledger: How to Watch Braintree
- Google Search: Braintree Little League World Series
- NBC Boston: Braintree Little League Team
- Google News: Braintree Little League World Series
- Boston Globe: Braintree Little League World Series
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Little League Baseball
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