South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, August 17, 2025
News Summary
The Irmo Little League team from South Carolina showcased their strength by defeating Braintree, Massachusetts 13-0 in their first game of the Little League World Series. Led by standout player Joe Giulietti, who excelled both as a pitcher and hitter, Irmo’s impressive performance featured a grand slam and an early conclusion of the game due to the mercy rule. This victory sets a record for the largest opening-game shutout for a U.S. team since 2015, highlighting Irmo’s championship aspirations.
South Williamsport, Pennsylvania – The Irmo, South Carolina Little League team showcased their dominance in the Little League World Series by defeating Braintree, Massachusetts, with a score of 13-0 in their opening game on August 14, 2025. The game, held at the Little League International Complex, was concluded early due to the mercy rule after only four innings of play.
Irmo, representing the Southeast region, was led by standout player Joe Giulietti, who made significant contributions both as the starting pitcher and as a key hitter. Giulietti pitched an impressive 3.1 innings, striking out eight batters and not allowing any hits. His performance on the mound played a crucial role in Irmo’s overwhelming victory.
The scoring for Irmo began in the first inning when Preston Ware crossed home plate, followed shortly by a sacrifice fly from Andrew Bogan, putting them ahead 2-0. As the game progressed, Irmo’s offense exploded in the second inning when Giulietti hit a grand slam, marking the first home run of the 2025 Little League World Series and elevating the score to 8-0.
In the third inning, Irmo capitalized on multiple errors and wild pitches from Braintree, tacking on five more runs without any contest from the opponents. The highlight for Braintree came from Coleman Gouthro, who managed the team’s only hit during the game, underscoring the overall dominance displayed by Irmo.
This victory stands out as the largest opening-game shutout for a U.S. team in the Little League World Series since 2015. With this commanding performance, Irmo has sent a clear message about their readiness and skill after successfully navigating various regional competitions to reach this prestigious tournament.
Following the defeat, Braintree will face a challenging path as they are set to compete against Richmond, Texas, in the elimination bracket on August 16, 2025. To advance to the U.S. final, they will now need to win five consecutive games.
Supporters from Irmo flocked to the stands, celebrating their team’s historic performance and underscoring the community’s enthusiastic backing. This opening game not only highlights the talent of these young athletes but also sets the stage for their aspirations in the Little League World Series.
Irmo’s victory is a testament to their hard work and perseverance, showcasing their potential as they aim for championship glory in this year’s tournament.
Key Stats from the Game:
- Final Score: Irmo 13, Braintree 0
- Innings Played: 4 (Mercy Rule)
- Strikeouts (Irmo): 8
- Hits (Braintree): 1
- Home Runs: Joe Giulietti (Grand Slam)
- Longest Game Shutout: Since 2015
FAQ
What was the final score of the Irmo vs. Braintree game?
The final score was Irmo 13, Braintree 0.
Who was the standout player for Irmo?
Joe Giulietti was the standout player, pitching 3.1 innings and hitting a grand slam.
What does the mercy rule entail?
The mercy rule is invoked when one team has a lead of 10 runs or more after four innings, causing the game to end early.
When does Braintree play next?
Braintree will face Richmond, Texas, in the elimination bracket on August 16, 2025.
How many consecutive wins does Braintree need to reach the U.S. final?
Braintree must win five consecutive games to reach the U.S. final.
Game Summary Chart
| Game Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Date | August 14, 2025 |
| Location | South Williamsport, Pennsylvania |
| Final Score | Irmo 13, Braintree 0 |
| Winning Pitcher | Joe Giulietti |
| Innings | 4 (Mercy Rule) |
| Strikeouts (Irmo) | 8 |
| Braintree Hits | 1 |
| Next Game for Braintree | August 16, 2025, vs. Richmond, Texas |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Irmo Dominates Braintree in Little League World Series Opener
Irmo Little League Triumphs Over Florida to Reach World Series
Irmo Little League All-Stars Achieve Dominant Victory
Joe Giulietti Leads Team Irmo to Dominant 13-0 Win
Braintree Shuts Out 13-0 by Irmo in Little League World Series Opener
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
Additional Resources
- CBS News: Braintree Little League World Series Loss to Irmo
- Wikipedia: Little League World Series
- WIS TV: Irmo Little League Advances in World Series
- Google Search: Little League World Series
- WLTX: Irmo Dominates in Little League World Series Opener
- Google Scholar: Little League World Series
- The State: Irmo’s Victory Highlights Little League Performance
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Little League World Series
- Cola Daily: Irmo Opens Little League World Series with 13-0 Win
- Google News: Irmo Little League
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.
