In 1999, a young José Casanova walked into the spotlight of the Little League Baseball® World Series as a pitcher for the Latin America Region. Just 12 years old at the time, he represented Yabucoa, Puerto Rico, on the biggest stage in youth sports. Now, 26 years later, Casanova returned to Williamsport in 2025, but instead of taking the field, he sat in the stands to watch his son, Sebastian Casanova Diaz, take his turn under the lights. For both father and son, the journey has come full circle.
Sebastian, now 12, grew up with a bat and glove, learning the game at an early age, practicing with his father. He often practiced alongside his cousins, who have also played a major role in supporting his development as a baseball player. In addition to the long hours of training, it was those memorable moments that have shaped Sebastian into a standout player in the 2025 LLBWS.
Leonardo Ortiz Torres, the manager for the 2025 Puerto Rico team in Williamsport, said that he recognized the Casanova family’s connection from the moment he began coaching Sebastian about a year ago.
“Right away, I knew how special this was,” said Torres. “It is incredible to share this with them.”
Torres described Sebastian as a “five-tool player” – a complete player who especially excels at running, fielding, and batting. During Puerto Rico’s matchup against Mexico in the 2025 LLBWS, Sebastian delivered one of the most memorable moments of his career, hitting a home run on the biggest stage in youth sports.
Memorable enough for any Little Leaguer®, this moment was even more special as it was the same achievement his father accomplished 26 years ago.
“I want to hit a home run just like my dad,” said Sebastian before the tournament began.
Jose still remembers his favorite moment from 1999, defeating a very competitive squad from Japan, a team that ultimately went on to win the tournament. While his team didn’t win the tournament, the thrill of being on television and competing against the best teams from around the world remains a lasting memory.
The comparisons between father and son extend beyond the stat line. Both are dominant pitchers, but their styles and personalities differ on the field.
“I am stronger,” said Sebastian with a smile. “My dad is more serious than I am.”
While Jose admitted the truth in this, he also prepared Sebastian for what was coming.
“I told him to expect a lot of pressure, a lot of fans, and a lot of great competition,” said Jose. “It is the biggest crowd you will play in front of.”
For Sebastian and his teammates, this tournament has been their first taste of a true global competition. The crowds at Volunteer Stadium are bigger and louder than anything they have experienced back home in Puerto Rico.
Despite all of the nerves and excitement around the tournament, Torres has kept his message simple to his team.
“I tell them to compete and have fun,” said Torres. “Play the game just like any other game.”
When Sebastian learned his team had qualified for the LLBWS, he said he was surprised but also very excited, not only for himself, but for the pride it brings his league and community.
“It is great to be here with teams from all over the world,” Sebastian said. “Making friends and further connecting with my teammates has been great.”
For Jose, watching his son follow in his footsteps has been a bit emotional. He understands the excitement, the pressure and the once-in-a-lifetime nature of the tournament. He also sees how much the LLBWS has grown since his own time on the field – more teams, more fans, and a whole new stadium.
Torres, who has coached in a number of tournaments over the years, said that nothing compares to the Little League Baseball World Series in Williamsport.
“This is the best tournament I have been a part of,” said Torres. “There is something special about this place.”
For the Casanova family, the connection has proved the magic of Williamsport is not just in the game, it’s in the bonds, traditions, and stories that connect one generation of Little Leaguers to the next.