New Jersey Little Leaguer Suspended for Bat Flip Before Tournament
A twelve-year-old baseball player from Haddonfield, New Jersey, faces suspension just before an important state tournament due to a bat flip he performed after hitting a game-winning home run. Marco Rocco’s actions, which occurred on July 16 during a sectional tournament, have left him feeling “distraught,” according to his father, Joe Rocco. The family is now seeking a temporary restraining order to allow Marco to participate in the upcoming games.
In a dramatic turn of events during the sixth inning, Marco hit a two-run homer, celebrated by tossing his bat into the air. Initially called out, the decision was reversed on appeal, allowing the runs to count. Despite this, the young player was ejected and suspended for one game for what officials deemed “unsportsmanlike” behavior and “horseplay.”
Family Takes Legal Action
The Rocco family has decided to take legal action, filing for an emergency temporary restraining order in Gloucester County Chancery Division. The hearing is scheduled for Thursday afternoon, just hours before the state tournament begins. “All we’re asking for is that the suspension be lifted so he can play in the game,” Joe Rocco stated.
The state tournament holds significant stakes, as the winning team will advance to the regionals, providing a pathway to the prestigious Little League World Series. The family’s frustration is amplified by the fact that Little League Baseball actively promotes bat-flipping celebrations on its social media channels, often showcasing similar acts without any repercussions. Joe Rocco described this inconsistency as hypocritical, noting that his son had previously celebrated with bat flips in earlier tournament games without facing penalties.
Confusion and Disappointment
The incident has deeply affected Marco. “He was so confused,” Joe Rocco explained. “On the car ride home, he was saying, ‘How can that be against the rules? If I knew I was breaking the rules, I never would have done it.’” This sentiment underscores the emotional toll such a decision has taken on a young athlete who was simply emulating the celebrations he has seen from major league players.
The situation raises questions about the guidelines governing Little League celebrations and how they are enforced. Despite the promotion of exuberant expressions of joy in the sport, the suspension of a young player for an act celebrated by many in baseball has prompted a backlash from players and parents alike.
As the family awaits the court’s decision, Marco’s future in the tournament remains uncertain. The Rocco family hopes to see common sense prevail so Marco can join his teammates as they compete for a chance at regional glory. A spokesperson from Little League’s East Region headquarters has been contacted for comments, but no response has been received at this time.
