Braintree, MA, August 14, 2025
News Summary
The Braintree American Little League team is gearing up for a crucial match in the Little League World Series, taking place in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Competing against Irmo, South Carolina, this 12-year-old squad has shown remarkable determination, winning their regional finals to qualify. With strong community support and a perfect record in the New England tournament, Braintree American aims for success in this prestigious event, which features 20 teams and runs from August 13 to 24.
Braintree, MA – The Braintree American Little League team, comprised of 12-year-olds, is preparing for an exciting showdown in the Little League World Series (LLWS) taking place in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Their opening game is set for Thursday, August 14, at 3 p.m. where they will go head-to-head against Irmo, South Carolina. This thrilling match will be broadcast live on ESPN and streamed on ESPN+.
Both teams have shown extraordinary resilience in reaching this point, having qualified through dramatic victories in their respective regional finals. Irmo secured their spot by defeating the defending LLWS champion Lake Mary, Florida, with a narrow score of 5-4, thanks to a walk-off double by Brady Westbrooks. Meanwhile, Braintree American clinched their place by edging out New Hampshire with a score of 3-2, where Frankie Fasoli made a heroic play by stealing home after an errant pitch.
Braintree American boasts an impressive track record in the New England tournament, finishing with a perfect record that includes several dominant wins prior to their nail-biting championship victory. The team is managed by Frank Fasoli, who has played a pivotal role in guiding these young players.
The Little League World Series this year features 20 teams divided into two double-elimination brackets: 10 from the United States and 10 international teams. To reach the U.S. championship game, set for August 23, Braintree American will need to secure three victories. If they lose their opening game, they will be sent to the elimination bracket, where they will need to win five consecutive games to advance.
The tournament runs from August 13 to 24, with a total of 38 games scheduled, making it an exhilarating event for players and fans alike.
Support from the Braintree community has been immense, with local businesses rallying around the team by hosting watch parties and selling merchandise. Fans have been celebrating at local bars and restaurants, underscoring their unwavering support throughout the tournament journey. Recently, the team participated in a “Grand Slam” parade to officially kick off the series, highlighting their cultural significance within the town.
This year’s efforts have led Braintree American to represent New England in the LLWS, marking the longest postseason journey in their program’s history. Players have been recognized as the “heartbeat of a proud baseball town,” according to the local Little League president. The roster features athletes Charlie Doolin, Frankie Fasoli, Jack Cushing, Sam Trotta, Caden McCarthy, Henry Kuka, Logan Needle, Cam Naumann, Colman Gouthro, Ryan Fennell, Trevor Inglis, and Owen Kippenhan.
The community spirit surrounding Braintree American is palpable; for instance, a local restaurant has even named a sandwich after one of the players, and a billboard tribute to the team can be seen on I-93. The mayor of Braintree noted that the unique support and camaraderie surrounding the team represents a special spark for the town. Additionally, the assistant coach received an overwhelming wave of 440 text messages following the last game before heading to the tournament, illustrating the excitement and encouragement provided by the community.
Key Features of the Little League World Series
- Opening Game: August 14, 3 p.m.
- Opponent: Irmo, South Carolina
- Media Coverage: ESPN and ESPN+
- Team Manager: Frank Fasoli
- Perfect Record: Braintree American in New England tournament
- Community Support: Local businesses, watch parties, and merchandise sales
- Players: 12 talented athletes
- Tournament Duration: August 13 to 24
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Braintree American Little League’s opening game?
The opening game is scheduled for August 14 at 3 p.m.
Who will Braintree American face in their first match?
They will face Irmo, South Carolina.
What channel will the game be broadcast on?
The game will be televised on ESPN and streamed on ESPN+.
How many teams are participating in the Little League World Series?
There are 20 teams participating in the tournament, divided into U.S. and international brackets.
What is the community’s involvement in supporting the team?
The community has shown immense support through watch parties, merchandise sales, and local celebrations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Braintree American Little League Wins First State Title
Little League Baseball World Series Kicks Off in Pennsylvania
Irmo All-Stars Set for Little League World Series Debut
Irmo Little League Team Set for Historic First Game
Fairfield National Little League Wins Metro Region Championship
Irmo All-Stars Secure Spot in Little League World Series
Irmo Little League All-Stars Advance to World Series
Braintree American Claims New England Championship
Irmo Little League All-Stars Head to World Series
Irmo Little League All-Stars Make History in World Series Bid
Additional Resources
- The Patriot Ledger: How to Watch Braintree American in LLWS
- Boston 25 News: Braintree set to play in LLWS
- WHDH: Braintree Family Members on LLWS Experience
- The Boston Globe: Braintree in Little League World Series
- Patch: Braintree Little League Heading to Williamsport
- Wikipedia: Little League World Series
- Google Search: Braintree American Little League
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Little League World Series
- Google News: Braintree LLWS
- Google Scholar: Little League World Series
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
