Phenix City’s all-star team enjoys a memorable day with the Atlanta Braves during tournament run
Category: Sports
In a remarkable showcase of talent and tradition, Phenix City, Alabama's 10-12 all-star baseball team is making waves at the Little League World Series, highlighted by a stunning 12-2 victory over Bonita, California’s Sweetwater Valley Little League on August 22, 2026. This win helped the team stave off elimination and underscored the deep-rooted baseball legacy of the Rasmus family, which has been intertwined with the sport for generations.
The Rasmus family, known for its exceptional contributions to baseball, has a lineage that includes father Tony Rasmus, who played professionally in the minors and later became one of Alabama's top scholastic coaches. His sons, Colby and Cory, both played in Major League Baseball, with Case Rasmus having a minor league career and Cyle playing at the collegiate level. This year, the spotlight shines on Tony's grandchildren, Ryker and Kinley, who are proudly representing Phenix City at the Little League World Series.
As the team enjoyed a well-deserved break from the pressures of competition, they had the extraordinary opportunity to spend the day with the Atlanta Braves on August 23, 2026. The players watched a morning matchup at Lamade Stadium, the historic venue for the Little League World Series, before greeting the Braves as they arrived at the local airport. Phenix City center fielder Cam Lee expressed his excitement, saying, "I was happy because the Braves are my favorite team, and I wanted to see Acuña."
The encounter became even more memorable when the young athletes rode the bus back with Braves stars, including Ronald Acuna Jr., Matt Olson, Chris Sale, and the standout Michael Harris Jr. Harris, dubbed “Atlanta Santa Claus” by teammate Dominic Smith Jr., delighted the Little League players by handing out designer sport sunglasses, creating lasting memories for Ryker Rasmus and his teammates.
Upon returning to the Little League World Series Complex, the Phenix City team mingled with the Braves, engaging in activities such as table tennis and video games, which left a lasting impression on the young players. Ryker Rasmus noted, "Probably just how they interact with you, and they respect you pretty well. They don’t just, they actually talk to you." This respectful interaction between Major League players and the Little Leaguers showcased the camaraderie and mentorship that baseball fosters.
Parents of the Phenix City players were equally thrilled by the opportunity for their children to meet their baseball heroes. Shae Rasmus, mother of Ryker and wife of manager Case Rasmus, remarked, "You’re playing 12-year-old baseball, and then you get to come and see the big leaguers, and hopefully it’s something that they can dream about in the future." This sentiment reflects the hope and inspiration that such experiences can ignite in young athletes.
The Rasmus family's baseball legacy is deeply rooted in Phenix City, Alabama. Tony Rasmus, who played in the California Angels' minor league system from 1986 to 1988, transitioned into coaching, where he became a prominent figure in the state. He has led Russell County High School to 590 wins, 17 area championships, and a state title in 2005, earning national recognition with a No. 1 ranking by *USA Today* and *Baseball America*.
In addition to his high school success, Tony guided Lakeside High School to consecutive state titles in 2024 and 2025. His influence is evident in his own sons—Colby and Cory, who both played in the majors— and in the countless players he has coached, leading to 19 draft selections and 70 baseball scholarships. Case Rasmus, who now coaches alongside Cory, emphasized their father's impact, stating, "He's had a hand in a bunch of people's development and helping them reach their goals. Reaching those goals has a lot to do with the discipline and structure and fundamentals he set. My dad is the foundation of everything we've achieved for sure."
This foundation has allowed the Phenix City Little League to flourish. Under the guidance of Case and Cory, the team recently won the 9U USSSA Rec League World Series, a state title in 2025, and now a regional championship in 2026. Mike Green, the Phenix City Youth Baseball President, praised the coaches, saying, "Just having that lineage of experience and knowledge being poured into our youth is invaluable." Such mentorship has played a key role in the team's disciplined and fundamental approach to the game.
As the Phenix City team continues its run in the Little League World Series, the legacy of the Rasmus family remains a powerful motivator. With Ryker and Kinley leading the charge, the team aims to build on its recent successes and make a mark on the national stage. The Rasmus family tradition of excellence in baseball is not just about past achievements; it is also about nurturing the next generation of players.
Looking ahead, the Phenix City all-stars are prepared to face tough competition as they advance through the tournament. Their impressive performance so far, including their decisive victory over Sweetwater Valley, has positioned them as serious contenders. As they strive for success, the influence of their coaches, particularly the Rasmus family, will undoubtedly continue to guide them.
In this legacy of baseball, the Rasmus family is not just about individual accomplishments; it’s about fostering a community of support and passion for the game. As they prepare for their next match, the players carry with them the hopes and dreams of their family and community, eager to leave their own mark on the sport that has defined their lives.