Haddonfield’s Famous Little League Bat-Flip Turns Into a Coveted World Series Collectible

What began as a heated Little League controversy in New Jersey has transformed into one of the most talked-about keepsakes of the summer — and it’s making its way to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Last month, 12-year-old Marco Rocco from Haddonfield made national headlines after his bat-flip celebration during a district championship game sparked a temporary suspension and a courtroom fight to get him back on the field. That battle was ultimately won, but now the story is taking an unexpected turn: the bat that caused all the stir is going up for auction, and a limited-edition pin honoring the moment will be in high demand at this year’s tournament.

From Controversy to Collector’s Item

The bat used in Rocco’s now-famous swing is being auctioned by Ken Goldin, a well-known figure in sports memorabilia and the star of Netflix’s King of Collectibles: The Goldin Touch. Goldin, whose son also plays for the Haddonfield team, has pledged that all auction proceeds will go back to Haddonfield Little League — ensuring the item’s legacy benefits the community where it all started.

In addition to the bat, 75 commemorative pins have been produced to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Haddonfield Little League. The pins are a collaboration between the Rocco family and former Major League Baseball brothers Jeff and Todd Frazier. The Fraziers pitched the idea as a way to capture one of the biggest Little League stories since Mo’ne Davis’s breakout performance in 2014.

Exclusive Pins for the Williamsport Trading Tradition

Unlike typical sports merchandise, these pins are not available for purchase. They’ll only be available through the beloved pin-trading culture that thrives at the Little League World Series. Collectors and fans will have to trade for one of the 75 pins in Williamsport later this month — making them an instant rarity.

Pin trading has long been part of the Little League World Series experience, with roots tracing back to the mid-1970s when a team from Taiwan helped spark the tradition. For Marco and his family, this year marks their first time experiencing that culture in person.

The Courtroom Win That Put Rocco Back in the Game

Marco’s bat-flip celebration initially led to his ejection and suspension, a decision that could have kept him from competing in the state tournament. But just hours before the first pitch, Judge Robert G. Malestein granted the Rocco family’s request for a temporary restraining order, clearing the way for Marco to rejoin his team.

Although Haddonfield lost its tournament opener 10-0 to Elmora on July 25, Marco made the most of his return. He hit a home run in his final at-bat of the tournament, posted an impressive .625 batting average, scored six runs, drove in four RBI, and even struck out four batters in a pitching appearance against Ridgewood.

A Story That Lives Beyond the Season

The Little League World Series officially begins today and runs through August 24, bringing teams from around the globe together in one of the sport’s most celebrated events. For the Rocco family, the bat and pin now represent far more than a single swing — they’ve become lasting symbols of resilience, community pride, and the unpredictable magic of youth baseball.

And for those lucky enough to secure one of the 75 pins in Williamsport, they’ll be holding a piece of Little League history that began with a moment of controversy but will live on as a cherished memory.

Sources:

• Associated Press

• Little League Baseball Official Website

• Goldin Auctions