Little League Team Wins Championship on Walk-Off Double

When the Orcutt National Giants found themselves trailing in the sixth inning Monday night, their championship dreams looked shaky. But these young athletes had other plans.

Riley Fuhring tied the game by scoring on a wild pitch in the top of the sixth, giving his team new life. One inning later, Jaxon Levey stepped up to the plate and delivered the hit that mattered most.

His two-run double in the seventh inning won the Giants the 2026 Santa Maria Elks Valley Little League Championship with a 6-4 victory over the Santa Maria Westside Dodgers. The game took place at Oakley Park in Santa Maria, where families and fans watched the back-and-forth battle unfold.

Both teams showed exceptional skill throughout the night. The Dodgers' Adrian Lopez pitched strong innings, while shortstop Matteo Maldonado made sharp defensive plays. The Giants got key contributions from pitcher Dave Grundy and third baseman Mason Wells, who celebrated a home run with his coach.

Why This Inspires

Youth sports create moments that stick with kids forever. The Giants learned that games aren't over until the final out, while the Dodgers showed grace in a hard-fought defeat.

These young players demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and determination in front of their community. They reminded everyone watching that comebacks happen when you keep believing and keep swinging.

Dave Grundy earned Most Valuable Player honors, standing proudly with Elks Club Exalted Ruler Steve Rayburn during the trophy presentation. Both teams lined up for handshakes after the final out, showing the sportsmanship that makes Little League special.

The championship caps off a memorable season for the Orcutt National Giants and their coaches. Their never-give-up attitude in the final innings turned what could have been a loss into a celebration their families won't soon forget.