Overview

• Judge Robert G. Malestein of New Jersey Superior Court voided Marco Rocco’s one-game ban for tossing his bat after a two-run homer on July 16
• Rocco returned to the Deptford Township double-elimination state tournament opener, going 0-for-2 in a 10-0 loss before contributing to an 11-3 win in his next game
• All-Star infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr., Cy Young winner Max Scherzer and Tigers catcher Jake Rogers publicly defended Rocco’s celebratory flip as part of a “have-fun” era
• Little League International expressed disappointment that the legal challenge diverted volunteer efforts and reiterated its commitment to respect for officials and sportsmanship
• The dispute highlights a growing clash between strict youth sports disciplinary codes and more expressive celebration norms in professional baseball