Chandler National All-Stars come up short in first game of regional

The Chandler National Little League All-Stars suffered a disappointing first game loss in the Little League World Series Western regional tournament, 7-3, on Sunday, Aug. 9. The team from Hawaii emerged victorious, despite Chandler leading 3-2 in the fifth inning after scoring two runs.

However, Chandler's fortunes quickly changed in the top of the sixth inning. Hawaii's patient approach paid off as they drew four walks and hit two doubles, with Kholten Panui hitting a crucial double into the left field gap, scoring the game-winning runs. Arizona's relief pitchers, Camden Burke and Jake Paluch, failed to prevent the deficit from widening as they surrendered five runs and handed over four walks to the visiting team.

Arizona's starting pitcher, Mason Mueller, pitched 4 2/3 innings, but his efforts were overshadowed by Burke and Paluch's struggles. Both relief pitchers allowed a combined five runs, with Burke giving up three hits and four walks. For Chandler, relief came with the elimination of Hawaii in the subsequent game, scheduled for Monday, Aug. 10, in San Bernardino, Calif. The loser of this match-up will be eliminated from regional championship contention.