Here comes No. 4, Mr. Orr
Fans can come out to watch Robert Orr on the ball diamond for the Canadian Little League Championship this week at Lovell McDonnell Field. Not the Hall of Fame hockey player, of course, but the young power hitting third baseman of the White Rock All Stars.
Fittingly sporting the No. 4 on his Mariners-style teal jersey, Orr says he’s even related to the Boston Bruins great — though he’s not sure of the exact lineage.
“I know I’m related to him somehow,” said Orr, adding he feels his redhot all-stars can clinch the Canadian title and punch their ticket to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Penn. if they simply stay on track. “We have a great team here. Everyone needs to do their part and I think we can win.”
White Rock went undefeated on their way to a provincial banner and a spot in this week’s championship tournament. But how they won is even more impressive.
Going 5-0 in their district championship, the 12-and-under team outscored their opponents 87-15 while stringing together 70 hits for a combined .530 batting average. White Rock coach Emmanuel Factor says Orr played a big part in making those numbers rise.
“He’s a great kid and great hitter. A power hitter and a leadoff hitter for us, and a pitcher as well,” said Factor, adding there’s never been any question as to who should wear No. 4. “He’s always worn it.”
Factor added Orr can be a bit of a joker around the dugout, bringing a unique brand of humour to their quest for the Little League World Series.
“You never know if he’s joking with you or being serious, but I’m starting to read his tells now,” said Factor. “He’s just a great kid, always smiling and always joking around.”
He may have the name of a legend and play for the All Stars, but for Orr, the main attraction is the field he and he’ll be stepping onto tonight at 5 p.m. to kick off the tournament against host Medicine Hat.
“They put together such a great field,” he said, looking in awe across the manicured diamond at Lovell McDonnell Field. “Just look at this complex, it’s like an MLB stadium.”