The initial throw prior to Thursday’s Washington Nationals’ contest signified a complete-circle occasion for a pair of Little League World Series competitors.
The hurler: Mo’ne Davis, a prominent sensation in the tournament’s history. The catcher: Nationals outfielder Robert Hassell III, who encountered Davis back in 2014. And struck out against her. On his special day.
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There existed no animosity.
In fairness to Hassell, he also achieved a hit off Davis when his Nashville squad played her Philadelphia team, however, that represented one of only two hits she permitted in an eight-strikeout shutout. That particular game designated her as the first female pitcher to secure a victory in LLWS history.
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Hassell even surfaces by name in the vintage “SportsCenter” highlight collection, complete with narration by Stuart Scott accompanied by a tweet originating from Kevin Durant.
Hassell was selected in the initial round of the MLB Draft six years subsequent. He articulated the experience previously this year and continued to be impressed, mentioning that he still monitors her on Instagram:
“It was unbelievable. She struck me out, on my birthday, mind you. I later secured a base hit. However, the audience echoing her name, considering our youth, was both chaotic and enjoyable. She possessed remarkable talent.”
On her end, Davis recollected her coach singling out Hassell as a potent hitter when questioned about him Thursday:
“Prior to the contest, while reviewing the lineup with our coach, he stated, ‘We should exercise caution with the individual named Robert. He’s a commendable hitter, possibly their top one, thus utmost care is needed, given his leadoff position.’ My response was, ‘Duly noted.'”
“His proximity to the plate required me to lock in fully. Avoiding contact and preventing him from reaching base or gaining momentum was essential. Every sensation from that game was intensified. Striking him out was an achievement, affording me bragging rights. He is unable to exact his revenge on me now.”
Presently at 24 years of age, Davis was at Nationals Park regarding the tryouts for the Women’s Pro Baseball League, slated to transpire at the same location next week. Post the 2014 LLWS, she has launched a memoir, participated in softball at Hampton University, and received a master’s degree in sports management from Columbia University.
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Concerning Hassell, his batting ability rendered him a top 100 prospect within the minor leagues. He constituted one of the numerous young athletes dispatched by the San Diego Padres to Washington in the notable Juan Soto trade during 2022. He inaugurated his MLB career this season, currently slashing .250/.264/.356, alongside two homers, across 106 plate appearances.
