While most 12-year-olds are spending the summer at the pool or with friends, one local kid is swinging for something bigger.

Max Michaels is trading in his vacation days for batting practice — with his sights set on the Little League Home Run Derby.

"I like watching the ball go over the fence," Max said. "It just makes me happy."

The backstory:

At just 12 years old, Max Michaels from La Grange Park is stepping up to one of the biggest stages in little league – the home run derby.

"It’s humbling to hit a lot of home runs," Max said. "You strike out a lot too. You got to stay even."

The home run derby brings together the top power hitters from across the country – and this hometown slugger is ready to launch a few into the seats come Wednesday in Williamsport, Connecticut.

"I was at a

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