Why is Little League World Series player called the 'Cologne Kid'? Explaining Staten Island standout's nickname

08-20-2024
3 min read
USA Today Sports

As South Shore Little League has continued its 2024 Little League World Series run, one of its biggest contributors has gained attention for his distinctive off-the-field passion: cologne.

With many unique personalities on this year’s LLWS rosters, one in particular stands out — the "Cologne Kid," who often celebrates with a fake cologne spray on his neck, as the New York Post highlighted Tuesday.

Here’s what to know about the "Cologne Kid" and his South Shore team.

MORE: Everything you need to know about the Little League World Series

Why is Little League World Series player called the ‘Cologne Kid’?

Dean Scarangello, 12, was dubbed the "Cologne Kid" by the New York Post for his signature celebration, in which he mimes spraying himself with cologne. He performed the celebration on the field Sunday after he hit a two-run single in South Shore’s win.

“I didn’t know people would notice me as the ‘Cologne Boy,’” Scarangello said. “It’s cool because people recognize me.”

The third baseman boasts a collection of more than 40 different scents. His father, John, said he’s had no contribution to his son’s obsession. 

“It’s odd to me because I had one cologne my whole life,” John Scarangello told the New York Post.

Where is the Metro region Little League team from?

South Shore, which has defeated Sioux Falls out of the Midwest Region and Hinsdale, Illinois, out of the Great Lakes region so far in the tournament, is representing the Metro region in this year’s Little League World Series.

The team hails from Staten Island, New York. It defeated the representative squads from Rhode Island and New Jersey in the Metro Region tournament to earn its LLWS bid.

Staten Island has staved off elimination from the tournament with its recent victories — Sunday’s crucial 4-0 win over Hinsdale set Scarangello and his team up for their next matchup in the bracket.

MORE: Updated bracket, scores for 2024 Little League World Series

When does South Shore play next?

  • Date: Tuesday, August 20
  • Time: 7 p.m. ET

South Shore again aims to avoid elimination in Tuesday's matchup against Lake Mary, Florida. The sweet-scented Scarangello and his team will be searching for their third win of the 2024 Little League World Series.