Image via Complex Original
The Little League World Series is a unique experience. Young kids get to live out their dreams of stepping on a serious stage on national television and playing the game they love. The games carry tons of dramatics from overbearing parents, clueless umpires, and of course the very emotional young athletes. These players leave it all on the field win or lose and make what seems to be a simple and amateur form of baseball an extreme amount of fun. The 2013 LLWS concludes today with California taking on Japan for this year's crown. From wild catches to funny team celebrations to fails you'd expect any young'n to make, here is a GIF Gallery highlighting the Little League World Series.
Head-On Collision
Year: 2010
The catcher took two Ls on this play. He took a head-on collision from the runner who is wearing a helmet, and on top of that, the runner is safe. We're hoping someone gave this kid a hug.
The Save
Year: 2007
There is nothing more clutch than a walk-off home run...except a game-saving catch robbing a team of a walk-off home run. The stakes were high but this little leaguer stepped up and made it happen.
Bring It Back
Year: 2006
This outfielder looks a little too big and old to be playing with little leaguers. Speaking of, what's Danny Almonte up to these days?
HBP Pain
Year: 2012
Taking one on the chin is never a good look (word to Jason Heyward), but this little leaguer took the hit and was able to get back up. Power through that young fella!
The Fallback Plan
Year: 2012
We're not sure if this outfielder even knew where he was on the field. Talk about being in the right place at the right time.
Over the Shoulder
Year: 2009
Playing the infield is always a tough job, especially when dealing with pop ups that float into the outfield. The shortstop gets his Cal Ripken on and makes an amazing catch look relatively easy.
Wild Pitch
Year: 2011
That ball had some major spin to it and broke the ESPN video camera in epic fashion. The young'n was channeling his inner Rick Ankiel with that throw.
Diving & Thriving
Year: 2012
That slide was so epic and he probably saved his team a couple of runs. The web gem is in full effect.
Teammate Tackle
Year: 2012
This should be defined as the classic "my teammate threw a no-hitter so I owe him" hug.
Have a Nice Trip
Year: 2011
The worst part about this is that the trip seems intentional. What happened to sportsmanship? Are these players really about that life?
Just Happy to Be Here
Year: 2012
That awkward moment when you think the umpire is offering you a high five, but he really wants the ball.
No Shoe, No Problem
Year: 2012
If slipping, falling, and losing your shoe was enough to make you quit, then you need to do better after seeing this. #footloose #victoryindafeet #kwellstopnow
This Ain't What You Want
Year: 2011
Collisions are always dangerous, but you have to do whatever it takes to get the out. It was like the runner collided with a brick wall. The big first baseman is back and flourishing.
Stumbling & Bumbling
Year: 2013
There's nothing more embarrassing than falling back like this. We have to give props to that pitcher from Puerto Rico throwing a nasty curve that left this Panamanian batter confused. This at-bat makes us wish Walt "Clyde" Frazier was doing the broadcast.
The Walk-Off
Year: 2011
Walk-off hits are special on any occasion, but it's even better watching young'ns who are playing simply for the love of the game.
Good Job, Good Effort
Year: 2009
At the end of the day the Little League World Series is about good sportsmanship and having fun right? Just make sure the parents are acting right and not trying to live their lives vicariously through their kids.
