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CJ Blowers: Leaving It All On The Field

When 27-year-old CJ Blowers took the mound for the Seattle Blackfins at the National Baseball Congress World Series in Wichita, Kansas on Saturday, July 27, no one thought he’d go 10 2/3 innings and throw 161 pitches. No one, except maybe for CJ.

Going against the Santa Barbara Foresters, a team who had won six of the previous 10 NBC World Series tournaments, and whose roster boasted a heavy lineup of DI players, was exactly the kind of opportunity that CJ was in Wichita for.

At 27, CJ was trying to jump start a career that he almost gave up on – that he did give up on for three and a half years – and what better way to do it than to leave it all out on the field against one of the best summer collegiate programs in the country.

Wichita wasn’t his first opportunity to play baseball and be noticed. A high school prospect and the son of Major Leaguer Mike Blowers, who spent 11 years in the big leagues from ‘89-’99, CJ has the pedigree to make his own name in baseball. Scouts were giving him looks in high school, and he spent two years at Edmonds Community College and one season at Cal State San Bernardino, but never felt like he found his people, himself, or his place in the game. So, after his junior year in college he hung up his cleats, called his parents and headed home.

At home, he stopped thinking about baseball and got a job at a pizza joint. That wasn’t his passion. He found a different job building houses, then working at a desk doing truss design, but that wasn’t it either. Even as he worked a 9-to-5, he felt himself called to the game again. First it was umpiring on the side, then giving pitching lessons, and then one day one of his students brought their older brother along to a lesson to watch, and the next thing he knew, CJ was being offered a chance to pitch in the Pacific International League, a league made up mostly of summer collegiate players in Washington state.

“I had barely picked up a baseball in the last three and a half years, so I didn’t think they’d actually want me. But then I just thought. I owe it to myself, family, & community to give myself a chance.”

This summer, Seattle Blackfins manager Dave Snell recruited Blowers to be a part of the Blackfins team travelling to compete in the NBC World Series in Wichita.

“He (Snell) told me prior to the NBC there would be people I want to be pitching in front of, so I went. And he was right.”

Back on the mound against the Foresters, the Foresters got on the board first, with a run in the first and a run in the second, but CJ battled his way through the Foresters lineup and held them scoreless through the 9th. His teammates did their part, playing solid defense and scoring a run in the top of the 7th and the top of the 9th to push the game in to extra innings.

As the 9th ended with the game tied 2-2, Blowers, the game’s starter, was still on the mound.

“I wasn’t ready to give it up, I knew I could still compete.” When the Blackfins head coach started walking his direction in the dugout, Blowers turned and walked to the bullpen effectively saying, “you are not taking the ball out of my hand.” When he looked back, no one was following him, so he went back out for the bottom of the 10th. After a scoreless 10th, he once again headed back out for the 11th. After 161 pitches – 103 of them strikes – and 10 2/3 innings, the game ended with the Blackfins on the losing end, 3-2.

“I knew I grinded it out, and pitched well, but I felt I didn’t do enough,” said Blowers. But fans in the stands, and the opposing manager, disagreed.

Bill Pintard, NBC Hall of Famer and manager of the Foresters approached Blowers after the game to tell him how impressive his outing had been. When he asked C.J. what he was looking for, CJ’s answer was simple – a shot. So, Bill made a call.

On August 6th, 10 days after his monstrous outing on the field at Eck Stadium in Wichita, CJ signed a contract with the Ottawa Titans in the Frontier League, and by August 8th he was in Canada, ready to take the mound.

“I’m not sure if guys appreciate the opportunity that the NBC World Series is,” said CJ, “I knew there would be eyes on me, but I didn’t realize how many, or that the people who could help me take the next step in my career would be there in the stands.”

Now, CJ is ready to keep making the most out of every opportunity that comes his way.

“I know the odds are against me, but I don’t care. No matter what happens I want to know I gave my dream everything I had. And to show others you can fall into a trap, make a mistake (even a couple), and work your way back to happiness, opportunity, & success. My story is meant to show others you can defy the odds if you work hard enough, and make friends along the way. Everyone has a purpose in life, but that gift isn’t just given to you. You have to search for it like your life depends on it. Because it does.”

The NBC Baseball Foundation is proud to announce CJ Blowers as the 2024 recipient of the Eric Pintard Most Inspirational Player Award. To support the NBC Baseball Foundation, and baseball dreams like CJ’s, visit nbcbaseball.com/donate.

CJ won the Triple Crown in the Pacific International League prior to competing in the NBC World Series with the Seattle Blackfins, with his home team the Northwest Honkers going 7-0 with a 0.77 ERA, 82 strikeouts and 21 walks over 58.2 innings.

In the regular season with the Ottawa Titans, CJ was 0-1 with a 0.87 ERA and has walked 11 and struck out 16 over 31 innings.

Pitching line vs. Santa Barbara: 10.2 IP, 13 H, 3 ER, 4 BB, 10 SO

2024 NBC All-American Team Announced

WICHITA, Kan. – The 2024 National Baseball Congress All-Americans all played key roles in advancing their respective teams through the 90th NBC World Series, powered by Evergy. The Hays Larks claimed their first National Championship in franchise history in 2024, and Hays manager Frank Leo was named NBC Manager of the Year.

2024 Opening Weekend Matchups

The NBC World Series kicks off on Thursday night, with 16 summer collegiate teams from across the country vying for a National Championship. Here’s a preview of each team’s first matchup.

Thursday, July 25th:

6:00 Pm TPA Texas vs Hutchinson Monarchs

The opening game for the 2024 NBC World Series features the defending champions Hutchinson Monarchs taking on Top Prospects Academy Texas. The Monarchs are from the Jayhawk Collegiate League in Kansas and earned an at-large bid for being the defending champions. This is the Monarch’s 13th appearance in the NBC World Series, their record is 28-21. Some key players to watch for the Monarchs are Cooper Wesslund, INF, #35, Hutchinson CC, Jaden Gustafson, OF, #24, Wichita State, and Ian Regal, P, #37.

Top Prospects Academy is making their first NBC World Series appearance, they earned their way to Wichita after winning the AABC Stan Musial Texas World Series held in Richardson, Texas.

8:30 PM Sandlot Tulsa vs Seattle Cheney Studs

The night-cap features an NBC World Series staple in the Seattle Cheney Studs going against the Tulsa Sandlot. The Studs have won 3 championships and hold a record of 83-44. In 2023, the Studs went 3-2 and tied for 3rd place. The Studs are from the Pacific International League and were the league champions this year. Some key players to watch on the Studs are Ben Schnurman, INF, #35, Big Bend CC, Isiah Afework, OF, #23, Tacoma CC, Brice Foster, P, #25, University of Jamestown. 

Sandlot Tulsa is making their 2nd consecutive NBC WS appearance after winning the AABC Stan Musial Oklahoma World Series in 2023 and 2024. In 2023, they finished 0-3. Players to watch for Sandlot Tulsa are Brody Green, SS, #26, TCU, Brennan Phillips LHP, #17, Oklahoma State, David Dean, P, #9, Texas A&M Corpus Christi. 

Friday, July 26th:

12 pm Lonestar Baseball Club vs Kansas Cannons

The day slate on Friday gets started with a great matchup between the Lonestar Baseball Club vs Kansas Cannons. Lonestar is making their 7th appearance in the NBC WS, in 2023 they tied for 5th with a 3-2 record. Lonestar is from the Centex Collegiate Baseball League, and they were the champions in 2024. Players to watch for Lonestar are Rod Black, INF, #8, West Texas A&M, JJ Garcia, INF, #10, Stephen F. Austin, Chris Perez, P, #30, University of Houston. 

The Kansas Cannons are located in Augusta, KS and earned their bid after having the second-best overall record in the Jayhawk Collegiate League. This is the Cannons 9th appearance in the NBC WS, and a third-place finish in 2019 represents the club’s best finish. Players to watch for the Cannons are Zeb Henry, INF, #1, Eastern Oklahoma State, Cooper Combs, OF, #25, Johnson County Community College/University of Kansas, Rugar Bravo, P, #28, Eastern New Mexico University. 

3 PM Seattle Blackfins vs Haysville Aviators

The 3 pm game will feature another representative from the Pacific International League in the Seattle Blackfins. The Blackfins are an expansion team in the PIL and are back in the NBC in back-to-back years. In 2023, they made it out of pool play but were eliminated in the first round of bracket play. Players to watch on the Blackfins are Jordan Singleton, C, #25, University of Jamestown, Austin Santiago, INF, #16, Shoreline CC, Kaden Wetzel, P, #48, Shoreline CC.

6 PM GPS Legends vs Santa Barbara Foresters

The GPS Legends finished second in the Centex Collegiate League; they have made two appearances in the NBC World Series with a 1-5 all-time record. Players to watch for GPS are Dayton Tockey, 1B/OF, #58, University of Oklahoma, Tanner Jackson, P, #14, Temple, Drew Woodcox, OF, Texas Tech. 

The Santa Barbara Foresters are in an NBC staple and have won the most NBC WS championships and hold an all-time record of 125-42. They won the California Collegiate League but also got an at-large bid for finishing second in 2023. Players to watch on the Foresters are Jack Holman, C/1B, #18, UCSB, Will Rogers, P, #7, University of Michigan, Frank Camarillo, RHP, #35, UCSB. 

8:30 PM Air Capital Flyers vs Hays Larks

The late game on Friday will feature the all high school team, the Air Capital Flyers. The Flyers are made up of all 2024 High School graduates or younger and they are the winners of the Hap Dumont League. It is the Flyers first appearance in the NBC World Series. Players to watch on the Flyers are Jack Martens, SS, #1, Coffeyville CC, Ronin Vicenti, P, #15, Johnson County CC, Luke Youngdahl, 1B/RHP, #14, Fort Scott CC. 

They will take on the Hays Larks who finished first in the Rocky Moutain League. The Larks are another popular NBC team and boast an all-time record of 119-74. The Larks have finished runner-up six times most recently in 2022 and in 2023 they finished 9th. Some players to watch on the Larks are Garrett Gruell, LF, #22, Murray State, Taylor Stokes, SS, #6, Butler CC, Aidan Schmiegal, RHP, #19. 

Saturday July 27th

12 PM Boulder Collegians vs San Diego Stars

Saturday kicks off with the Boulder Collegians against the San Diego Stars. The Collegians are set to make their 19th appearance in the NBC World Series after a 13th place finish in 2021. The Collegians have won 4 championships and have a 79-32 record in the NBC WS. Some players to watch on the Collegians are CJ Pino, RHP, #15, Adams State, Hunter Hirayama, INF, #2, St Mary’s College, and Zain Zinicola, OF, #11, Nothern Colorado. 

The San Diego Stars represent the Western Baseball Association and will make their 27th appearance in the NBC World Series. Their last appearance was 2022, where they finished 9th, the highest finish for the Stars was third in 2019.

3 pm Liberal Bee JAYS vs Derby Twins

The first slate of games is wrapped up by the in-state matchup between the Liberal Bee Jays of the Rocky Moutain Baseball League and the Derby Twins of the Jayhawk League. The Bee Jays have the record for total tournament appearances, making their 55th this year and total tournament wins with 202. They have five championships with the most recent being in 2002. Players to watch on the Bee Jays are Ben Merriman, OF, #6, Texas State, Robert Orr, SS/RHP, #24, San Joaquin Delta, and Luke Steward, RHP, #23, McNeese State. 

The Derby Twins are the 4th representative of the Jayhawk league, the Twins most recent appearance was in 2021 where they finished 5th. The Twins best finish was in 2007, the year they re-located to Derby, when they finished second. Players to watch on the Twins are Holden Painter, INF, #14, Walters State, Owen Reynolds, LHP, #33, Kade Sheldon, OF, #7, Cowley CC. 

To follow all the action, visit nbcbaseball.com and bookmark Tournament Central for scores, stats, schedules and more. It will be updated after every game. Games can be livestreamed at NBC World Series – YouTube.

NBC World Series: Showcasing Top Talent

The National Baseball Congress World Series is not just another baseball tournament— with a 90-year track record of sending players to the major leagues, it has evolved into a platform designed to propel baseball players to new heights through innovative technology and strategic partnerships. Here’s how the NBC World Series integrates the best features from its partners to create opportunities for athletes in 2024:

Empowering Players with Synergy Sports: Partnering with Synergy Sports, the NBC World Series integrates advanced analytics into the game. Synergy’s expertise in linking data with video analysis provides players and coaches real-time insights into performance metrics. This technological edge not only enhances player development but also amplifies their visibility to scouts and coaches, paving the way for collegiate scholarships and professional opportunities.

Scouting Coverage by Prep Baseball Report: In collaboration with Prep Baseball Report, the NBC World Series ensures that players receive extensive coverage and evaluation. Prep Baseball Report offers exposure for amateur baseball talent. The NBC becomes a focal point for scouts seeking the next generation of stars, providing players with the platform to showcase their skills in high-stakes games. Whether it’s through live events, detailed player profiles, or multimedia platforms, Prep Baseball Report’s scouting infrastructure amplifies players’ visibility and opportunities.

Trackman Technology: Trackman’s advanced sports analytics technology further enhances the NBC World Series experience by providing measurements and analysis across pitching, hitting, and fielding. From evaluating pitch movements to tracking batted ball trajectories, Trackman equips teams with objective metrics that supplement traditional scouting methods. This detailed data not only aids in player development but also serves as a vital tool for scouting and recruitment, helping teams identify top prospects for future success.

Pathway to Professional Baseball: The NBC World Series boasts a rich history of producing MLB draft picks, including recent standouts like Josh Jung and Ryan Helsley. For players competing in the tournament, the opportunity to showcase their skills under the scrutiny of industry-leading technologies and scouting networks is unmatched. It’s a stage where dreams of playing at the next level become reality, supported by partnerships that redefine how talent is identified and nurtured in amateur baseball.

To follow all of the action of the 2024 NBC World Series, visit NBC World Series Tournament Central

For information on scouting the NBC World Series, contact katie@nbcbaseball.com

 

 

Five of the Top Modern Day NBC Alumni

When people think of great players who played in the NBC World Series, the names that often come to mind are MLB Hall of Famers like Roger Clemens, Ozzie Smith and Joe Carter, or those who have had Hall of Fame careers and will join them soon, like Albert Pujols. But while nearly 1,000 National Baseball Congress alumni have gone on to the majors over the past 90 years, there is also plenty of current, young talent from the NBC making their mark today. Here’s five of the best NBC World Series alumni playing in the majors in 2024:

Matthew McLain

McLain played in the 2020 NBC World Series, where he hit leadoff for the Santa Barbara Foresters, helping them achieve a 4-0 record and secure the tournament victory. A year later, McLain was selected in the first round of the MLB draft by the Cincinnati Reds from the University of California.

In 2023, McLain made his MLB debut and has since accumulated a career WAR of 3.7 and a batting average of .290. Currently, McLain plays regularly for the Reds, rotating between shortstop, second base, and third base positions.

 

JOSH Jung

Jung played in the 2017 NBC World Series for the Santa Barbara Foresters. Jung was a star at Texas Tech, and in 2019 he was drafted 8th overall by the Texas Rangers. Jung was called up in 2022 and played sparingly, but in 2023 he won the full-time third basemen job.

In the 2023 season Jung was named to the All-Star team and was a vital piece for the Rangers World Series Championship. Jung is the most the recent NBC Alumni to win a World Series and the first Santa Barbara Forester alumni to win a World Series. 

 

Tim Anderson

Anderson played for the Dodge City A’s in the 2012 NBC World Series, contributing to their 3-2 record in the tournament. Following his time at East Central Community College, Anderson was drafted in the first round of the 2013 MLB Draft by the Chicago White Sox. He made his Major League debut in 2016 and enjoyed a successful tenure with the White Sox, earning two All-Star selections, a batting title, and a Silver Slugger award.

Before the 2024 season, Anderson signed with the Miami Marlins, where he currently serves as the everyday shortstop.

In recognition of his achievements and journey, Anderson was named the 2020 NBC World Series Graduate of the Year.

 

Jeff McNeil

McNeil was named an NBC World Series All-American in 2011 while playing for the tournament champion Santa Barbara Foresters. McNeil posted an .345 batting average across seven games, scoring 8 runs and driving in four. He was subsequently drafted by the New York Mets in 2013, following his tenure at Long Beach State University.

Debuting in 2018, McNeil has since earned two All-Star selections, a Silver Slugger award, and a batting title. His career includes a 19 WAR and a .292 batting average. As of 2024, McNeil continues to hold the position of everyday second baseman for the Mets.

Additionally, in 2021, McNeil received the honor of being named the NBC World Series Graduate of the Year.

 

RYan Helsley

Helsley made his mark with the 2014 Santa Barbara Foresters during the NBC World Series, contributing as a bullpen piece to their championship victory. The following year, Helsley was drafted in the 5th round by the St. Louis Cardinals.

Upon his debut in 2019, Helsley quickly established himself as the Cardinals’ full-time closer. Since then, he has emerged as one of baseball’s most dominant relievers, achieving a career ERA of 2.79 and accumulating 59 saves. As of 2024, Helsley remains a key player for the Cardinals, leading the MLB with 24 saves and poised to earn his second All-Star selection.

Helsley was honored as the 2023 NBC World Series Graduate of the Year.

On the Watch List:

Bryce Elder (Santa Barbara Foresters, Atlanta Braves), Chrisitan Encarnacion-Strand (Santa Barbara Foresters, Cincinnati Reds) and Ryan O’Hearn (Santa Barbara Foresters, Kansas City Royals-Baltimore Orioles)

The next wave of NBC World Series prospects takes the field July 25-August 3, 2024 at Wichita State University’s Eck Stadium for the 90th NBC World Series, powered by Evergy. Who knows what future major leaguers will be on that field, making their name for themselves.

Baseball ‘Round The Clock Returns to the NBC World Series

WICHITA, Kansas – Baseball ‘Round The Clock, once a staple of the NBC World Series in Wichita, is returning to the NBC in 2024 after an eight-year hiatus. Fans will have the opportunity to watch 11 games over the course of 33 hours, starting at noon on Saturday, July 27 and running through a 6:00pm game on Sunday, July 28.

“Baseball ‘Round the Clock has historically been one of the most exciting and unique events in the NBC World Series,” said NBC tournament director Katie Woods, “For the 90th tournament, it was time to bring it back. We’re ready to introduce a new generation of competitors to some of the same elements – Midnight Madness, the cuckoo clock check-ins and ‘I survived’ shirts – that diehard NBC fans remember.”

Baseball played at all hours has long been a tradition of the NBC. National Baseball Congress founder Hap Dumont came up with the idea of having late-night and early-morning games in the tournament to make games accessible to Wichita fans working swing and graveyard shifts early in the tournament’s history. NBC tournament director Steve Shaad formalized the tradition in 1990 with the introduction of ‘Baseball ‘Round the Clock” as 17 games in 56 hours. BRTC ran every year after that at the NBC through 2016 before it was discontinued.

Fans ready to take on the challenge of surviving all 33 hours of Baseball ‘Round the Clock in 2024 can purchase their Baseball ‘Round the Clock (BRTC) tickets now at nbcbaseball.com for $20. BRTC tickets get participants entry in to all 11 games, as well as a punch card and wristband that will be used for check-ins at least once per game. When check-ins sound, participants have 10 minutes to report to the designated check-in spot and get their card punched to continue in the competition. Participants who have their card punched at every check-in will receive a free t-shirt, a tournament pass for the rest of the tournament, and will be entered into a raffle to win a series of grand prizes.

Director of Community Partnership Brian Turner was a part of the Baseball ‘Round the Clock staff for six years during his tenure with the Wichita Wingnuts, and is looking forward to taking on the challenge once again.

“There’s no event quite like Baseball ‘Round the Clock,” said Turner, “It’s a generational event, and we’re excited to bring it back with a new look, for both old and new fans, in 2024.”

The 2024 NBC World Series, powered by Evergy, runs July 25-August 3 this year and will be played fully at Eck Stadium at Wichita State University. Single day tickets, groups and tournament passes are all available for purchase now .

2023 NBC World Series Game Recaps

Saturday, august 12th

Hutchinson Monarchs (KS) vs. Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)

The Hutchinson (KS) Monarchs dethroned the 10-time champion Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)with a 6-3 victory Saturday in the championship game of the 89th National Baseball Congress World Series. The title came in the Monarchs’ first time in the championship game and broke a three-year run of Forester championships. It also broke Santa Barbara’s 20-game winning streak in the tournament and 10-game winning streak in the finals.

Hutchinson (6-0) capitalized on a Santa Barbara error in the fifth to score a pair of unearned runs on a Will Edmunson double. Cooper Harris doubled in a run and scored another in the sixth, and Jaden Gustafson hit a two-run homer in the seventh.

Winning pitcher Cole Toureau stymied the Forester offense through 7⅓ innings, allowing a run on Will Rogers’ base hit and departing after a Daniel Patterson double in the eighth. Santa Barbara (5-1) got two runs in the inning and brought the tying run to the plate, but a Derick Johnson strikeout quelled the threat. Reed Scott retired the side in order with two strikeouts to close out the game and earn his second
save. Jarrett Flaggert had three hits and scored a run, while Gustafson scored twice.

Carson Turnquist took the loss, allowing the two unearned runs in 4⅔ innings, while two relievers each gave up a pair of runs. Max Belyeu paced the Santa Barbara offense with two hits, a run scored and one knocked in.

The championship was the first for a Kansas team since Liberal Bee Jay title in 2010 and the Kansas Stars’ ex-pro team in 2017. The game was only the second time since knockout round play began in 2016 that two undefeated teams met in the finals.

The Monarchs led the tournament with a .360 batting average and was fourth with a 2.39 ERA.

The Foresters led in pitching and fielding coming into the finals, but finished second in ERA at 2.12 and second in fielding with a .979 mark.

Tournament MVP Max Buettenback went 1-for-3 to finish with a .524 average with 10 runs scored 11 hits and 10 RBIs.

Friday, August 11th

Hutchinson Monarchs (KS) vs. Five Tool Kraken (TX)

The Hutchinson Monarchs dominated the Five Tool Kraken in a semi-final game, clinching a 17-0 victory.

The Monarchs displayed an explosive offensive performance, scoring two runs in the second inning and ten runs in a dynamic third inning. Max Buettenback and Sam Wiese stood out with a combined seven RBIs , while Jaden Gustafson contributed three.

Brady Pacha led the Monarchs’ pitching efforts, delivering a stellar performance with only one hit allowed and eight strikeouts over five shutout innings. Defensively, the Monarchs’ teamwork and precision stifled the Kraken’s opportunities.

In contrast, the Kraken struggled both at the plate and on the mound, unable to contain the Monarchs’ offense.

Seattle Studs (WA) vs. Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)

The Santa Barbara Foresters secured their spot in the tournament finals by defeating the Seattle Studs with a final score of 5-0 in the semi-final matchup.

Notable contributors included Jalin Flores, who hit a home run and tallied two RBIs, and Eammon Lance and Will Rogers, who each hit a home run and brought in a combined four RBIs.

Zane Petty led the Foresters’ pitching efforts, delivering an outstanding performance by throwing seven shutout innings, allowing only three hits while striking out eight. The Foresters’ defense also played a pivotal role, holding the Studs to six hits and preventing them from scoring.

In contrast, the Studs struggled to generate offense against the Foresters’ strong pitching and defense. Despite their efforts, they were unable to overcome the deficit, resulting in a 5-0 loss.

Thursday, August 10th

12:00pm: Hutchinson Monarchs (KS) vs. Lonestar Baseball (TX)

The Hutchinson Monarchs asserted their dominance in a decisive 11-1 victory over the Lonestar Baseball.

From the very start, the Monarchs demonstrated their offensive prowess, with Will Edmunson, Samuel Wiese, Jarrett Flaggert, and Blake Bradford delivering key hits. Edmunson’s two hits included a double and three RBIs, while Wiese’s notable efforts resulted in three hits, including a home run, and three RBIs. Flaggert’s timely hitting contributed two RBIs, and Bradford’s performance included three hits and an RBI.

Brady Beverman’s pitching for the Monarchs was equally impressive, allowing only four hits and one run over seven innings while striking out seven batters. Lonestar struggled to find their footing against Beverman’s effective pitching and the Monarchs’ solid defense.

On the Lonestar side, Rodrick Black was the main contributor, recording a hit and an RBI. However, their offensive efforts were overshadowed by the Monarchs’ strong showing.

As the Monarchs secured their place in the semifinals, the Lonestar team faced a challenging loss that saw them exit the tournament.

3:00PM: Santa Barbara Foresters (CA) vs. Denver Cougars (CO)

Santa Barbara Foresters delivered an impressive performance by throwing a no-hitter and securing a convincing victory over the Denver Cougars with a final score of 3-0.

The game showcased a pitching duel between Ben Bybee of the Foresters and Austin Wagner of the Cougars. Bybee’s dominant presence on the mound was evident as he pitched six scoreless innings and struck out an impressive ten batters. His ability to mix up his pitches and locate them effectively kept the Cougars’ hitters off balance throughout the game. Robert Cranz took over the pitching duties in relief and continued the trend of stellar pitching, delivering three more scoreless innings and recording eight strikeouts.

Offensively, the Foresters capitalized on their opportunities. Miguel Santos powerful swing resulted in a crucial home run, giving his team an early lead. Will Rogers sacrifice fly added another run to the Foresters’ tally, demonstrating their ability to manufacture runs and execute in key situations. While the Foresters managed to collect six hits as a team, the standout performance on the mound from their pitchers ensured that their lead would be sufficient.

6:00PM: Kansas Cannons (KS) vs. Five Tool Kraken (TX)

Five Tool Kraken secured a 6-3 victory over the Kansas Cannons in a closely contested matchup.

The game began with the Kraken taking an early lead in the first inning, driven by Juhlien González, who showcased his skills by scoring twice during the match. Throughout the game, both teams demonstrated resilience, with the Cannons battling to close the gap.

Cade Tucker and Case Pettis also stood out for the Kraken, each driving in important runs to propel their team to victory. Meanwhile, the Cannons’ Owen Clyne showcased his bat with a timely hit that brought in two runs.

Pitching proved to be a critical factor in the Kraken’s win, with Caleb Heuertz delivering an impressive performance over 5.1 innings, allowing only one run. Brandon Manaska and Bryce McCain stepped in as relief pitchers, preserving the lead and ensuring the win for the Kraken.

8:30PM: Seattle Studs (WA) vs. Great Bend Bat Cats (KS)

Seattle Studs emerged victorious with a 6-1 win against the Great Bend Bat Cats.

The Studs took control early on, building a solid lead by capitalizing on key opportunities. Landon Rikers home run stood out as a notable offensive highlight, contributing two runs to the scoreboard.

Jacob Bradley played a significant role on the mound for the Studs, delivering an impressive pitching performance. With 8.1 innings pitched and allowing just one run, Bradley’s efforts set the tone for the team’s victory. Brice Foster came in for the final outs, closing the game and sealing the win for the Studs.

Defensively, the Studs executed well and limited the Bat Cats’ scoring opportunities. The Bat Cats’ lone run came in the ninth inning, but it wasn’t enough to mount a comeback against the strong performance of the Sea Studs WA.

Wednesday, August 9th

12:00Pm: Lonestar Baseball CLub (TX) vs. Arlington Baptist (TX)

In the first round of bracket play, Lonestar Baseball beat the Arlington Baptist 19-3.

Right from the start, Lonestar displayed their offensive prowess. Andre Jackson and Rodrick Black led the charge, accumulating a total of 6 hits, driving in 4 runs, and scoring 5 themselves. Keaton Grady’s consistent presence on the bases added to the pressure on the ABU Patriots’ defense.

Jamie Richey’s well-timed hits contributed to Lonestar’s offensive barrage, and Tony DeJesus showcased his hitting abilities with 2 RBIs. The game’s standout moment was Lonestar’s astounding 12-run inning in the ninth, putting the game out of reach.

On the pitching front, Ryan Bailey’s masterful performance stifled the Arlington’s offense. With 7.1 strong innings, Bailey allowed only 3 runs and showcased excellent control. His ability to keep Arlington hitters off balance played a crucial role in Lonestar’s victory.

While Arlington put up a fight, they were unable to match Lonestar’s level of play. Lonestar’s collective performance proved to be the defining factor in this game.

3:00Pm: Liberal Bee Jays (KS) vs. Denver Cougars (CO)

The Denver Cougars secured a narrow 6-5 victory against the Liberal Bee Jays.

The Cougars showcased their offensive prowess, registering a total of 11 hits throughout the game. Caleb McClellan’s performance was particularly noteworthy, going 2-for-4 at the plate with two runs scored. Jonathan Gonzales and Matt Bathauer also made significant contributions, each adding a hit to their name.

The Bee Jays displayed resilience as well, with Owen May leading the charge with two RBIs, and Hudson Polk contributing an RBI as part of their offensive effort. Despite their best efforts, the Bee Jays fell just short of overcoming the Cougars’ offensive output.

On the pitching front, Liam Hohenstein of the Cougars demonstrated his skill and control, lasting six innings and allowing four runs. The Bee Jays’ Tristin Crusenberry and Tyler Wilcox both took the mound, with Crusenberry going five innings and Wilcox covering the remaining four innings. Despite their efforts, the Cougars managed to edge out a victory.

6:00PM: Hays Larks (KS) vs. Five Tool Kraken (TX)

The Kraken defeated the Hays Larks 9-2 in the first round of bracket play

The Kraken wasted no time in making their mark, with Chase Pendley and Case Pettis leading the charge. Pendley’s standout performance, going 3-for-6 at the plate, included two runs scored and two stolen bases. Pettis contributed significantly with three hits, including a home run, and three RBIs.

Pitcher Justin Webster of the Kraken showcased his skills by allowing only two hits and one run over six innings, effectively keeping the Larks in check. The Larks, led by Trent Baker and Payton Ebbing, put up a resilient effort, but they struggled to keep pace with the Kraken’s dominant performance.

The Kraken continued to build on their lead, with a total of 12 hits throughout the game. Their offensive display was complemented by the solid pitching of Webster, who secured the win. Despite their efforts, the Larks were unable to bridge the gap, resulting in a well-deserved victory for the Five Tool Kraken.

8:30: Great Bend Bat Cats (KS) vs. Seattle Blackfins (WA)

Great Bend Bat Cats demonstrated their dominance with an impressive 17-6 victory over the Seattle Blackfins.

The Bat Cats’ lineup was firing on all cylinders, with Robby Bolin, Tyler Cowan, and Isaiah Ural leading the way. Bolin’s remarkable day at the plate included three hits and two runs scored, while Cowan contributed significantly with two hits, including a home run, and three RBIs. Ural’s efforts resulted in one hit and two runs scored.

The Blackfins’ pitching struggled to contain the Bat Cats’ offensive onslaught, as they capitalized on walks and made the most of their at-bats. The Bat Cats’ impressive display was not limited to hitting; their strategic base running allowed them to create scoring opportunities and put pressure on the Blackfins’ defense.

On the mound, Tyrus Riley, Chayse Gruber, and Bryan Bartels combined their efforts to limit the Blackfins’ scoring. Gruber’s performance was particularly noteworthy, as he pitched two innings without conceding a run. The Blackfins, led by Zion Williams and Harrison Kaufman, put up a fight, but their efforts fell short in the face of the Bat Cats’ overwhelming offensive display.

Tuesday, August 8th

12:00PM: GPS Lengends (TX) vs. Hutchinson Monarchs (KS)

The GPS Legends and Hutchinson Monarchs played an intense game that ended with the Monarchs winning by a narrow margin of 12-11.

The game was characterized by a high-scoring back-and-forth battle between the two teams. Both teams had their offensive moments, and the Monarchs managed to secure the victory in the end.

The Legends showed their offensive prowess, scoring 11 runs on 13 hits. Trent Rucker, Zachary Mazoch, and Abraham Valdez were among the standout players for the Legends, contributing to the team’s offensive effort. However, despite their efforts, the Monarchs’ pitching staff struggled to contain the Legends’ hitters.

On the Monarchs’ side, their offense was driven by Will Edmunson, Cooper Harris, and Jaden Gustafson, who each contributed multiple RBIs to the team’s 12-run total. The Monarchs’ hitters took advantage of some opportunities and managed to score enough runs to secure the win.

Both teams had their share of defensive challenges, with a combined total of seven errors between them. The game was a rollercoaster of runs and excitement for both teams and their fans.

3:00PM: Sandlot tulsa (ok) vs. Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)

Sandlot Tulsa faced off against the Santa Barbara Foresters in a game that resulted in a 11-4 victory for the Foresters.

The Foresters’ offense was in full swing, collecting 15 hits and scoring 11 runs throughout the game. Key players like Miguel Santos, Max Belyeu, and Nate Voss contributed to the Foresters’ offensive efforts with multiple hits and RBIs.

On the other hand, Sandlot struggled to contain the Foresters’ offense and could not match their production. Despite their efforts, they managed to score only 4 runs on 7 hits. Zac Burns and Keaton Campbells were notable contributors for the Sandlot team, driving in a total of three runs.

Both teams had their share of defensive moments, with a combined total of three errors during the game. The Foresters’ pitching staff did a better job at limiting the Sandlot’s offense, which played a significant role in their victory.

6:00pm: Great Bend Bat Cats (KS) vs. Five Tool Kraken (TX)

 

Monday, August 7th

12:00pm: D-Bat Collegiate League (OK) vs. seattle Studs (WA)

In a closely contested match,  D-BAT Collegiate League secured a 5-4 victory over the Seattle Studs .

D-BAT got off to a good start, scoring two runs in the bottom of the third inning. However, the Studs fought back and started to lead the game with a run in the forth inning and two more in the fifth inning, making it 3-2.

In the bottom of the fifth inning, D-BAT regained the lead with two runs, taking a 4-3 advantage. The Studs managed to add one more run in the eighth inning, but D-BAT answered back with a run of there own, making the Studs comeback fall short by one run.

Both teams displayed solid pitching performances, but the D-BAT’s Gunner Phillips had a standout performance, going 8 innings and allowing 4 runs while striking out 7 batters. Cole Luebbert closed out the ninth inning to secure the victory and earn the save.

Akiyoshi Buckson and Makana Murashige were among the offensive stars for the Studs, while Luke Jayaraman and Greg Maskarinec stood out for D-BAT.

3:00PM: Kansas Cannons (KS) vs. SC BLUES (KS)

The Kansas Cannons put on an impressive display, defeating the SC Blues with a commanding 9-0 victory.

The Cannons took an early lead, scoring one run in each of the second and third innings to go up 2-0. They continued to pile on the pressure, adding another run in the seventh inning to make it 3-0.

Kansas Cannons’ pitcher, Conner Woods, was outstanding on the mound, keeping the Blues hitters at bay with six shutout innings and six strikeouts. His dominant performance set the tone for the game.

In the seventh inning, the Cannons added one more run, extending their lead to 4-0. However, the real breakthrough came in the eighth and ninth inning when they exploded for six runs, putting the game out of reach for the Blues.

Offensively, Trey Orman had a fantastic day, going 3-for-7 at the plate with two runs scored and an RBI. Jack Wagner also had a strong showing, contributing three hits and driving in two runs. Owen Clyne was also productive, tallying two RBIs in the game.

On the defensive side, the Cannons’ pitching was nearly untouchable, limiting the Blues to just two hits throughout the entire game.

The Kansas Cannons celebrated a well-deserved victory, with an impressive offensive and pitching performance.

6:00pm: Liberal bee jays (KS) vs. Arlington Baptist (TX)

Liberal Bee Jays dominated the Arlington Baptist Patriots with a convincing 13-3 victory in five innings

The Bee Jays took control of the game right from the start, scoring 2 runs in the second inning to take an early lead. They continued their offensive onslaught in the third inning, adding 3 more runs to extend their lead to 5-0.

While the ABU Patriots managed to score a run in the third inning, the Bee Jays’ offense remained relentless. In the bottom of the forth, they put up 5 more runs to widen the gap to 10-1.

The Bee Jays’ offensive stars shined in this game. Ryota Kusumoto and Mateo Garcia each had impressive performances, with Kusumoto driving in 4 runs and Garcia contributing 3 RBIs. Polk also had a notable day at the plate, adding 2 RBIs to the team’s total.

On the pitching side, Adrian Najar led the way for the Bee Jays with a solid outing. He pitched 4.1 innings, allowing 3 runs and striking out 6 batters. The Bee Jays’ bullpen was also effective in shutting down the ABU Patriots’ offense, as Paul Panduro came in for relief and closed out the game without allowing any additional runs.

8:30 PM: Lonestar Baseball Club (TX) vs. Denver Cougars (CO)

Denver Cougars faced off against Lonestar in a closely contested game that ended with the Cougars winning 2-1.

The Cougars managed to edge ahead in the game, scoring 2 runs in the third inning to take a 2-0 lead. However, Lonestar responded with a run in the bottom of the third, narrowing the gap to 2-1.

The Cougars’ pitcher, Brian Walters, had a strong performance on the mound, pitching 5 innings and allowing only 1 run. He was supported by the team’s defense and pitching staff, which held Lonestar to just 1 run.

Jonathan Gonzales and Mike Bathauer were among the key players for the Cougars, with Gonzales scoring a run and Bathauer driving in a run. The Cougars’ offense may not have been explosive, but their timely hitting and solid pitching allowed them to secure the victory.

On the Lonestar side, their pitcher Christian Okerholm had a decent outing, pitching 3 innings and allowing 2 runs. The Lonestar offense tried to rally but fell short, managing to score only 1 run in the third inning.

The game remained tense throughout, but the Cougars managed to hold on to their narrow lead and seal the win with a final score of 2-1. Both teams put up a strong fight, but the Cougars’ pitching and defense ultimately proved to be the deciding factors in this game.

Sunday, August 6th

12:00 PM: Sandlot Tulsa (OK) vs.Five Tool Kraken (TX)

In a high-scoring affair, Five Tool Kraken outlasted Sandlot Tulsa with an 11-9 victory in a back-and-forth contest.

The Kraken started strong, scoring a run in the first inning and adding three more in the third. Josh Livingston led the offensive charge, hitting a three-run homer and driving in a total of four runs for the Kraken.

However, Sandlot Tulsa responded with an impressive seven-run outburst in the bottom of the fourth inning. They capitalized on some shaky pitching from the Kraken and timely hits from Kaiden Ashton, Trey Migl, and Keaton Campbell to take the lead.

But the Kraken refused to back down, scoring two runs in the fifth inning and three more in the seventh to regain the lead. Juhlien González was instrumental in the comeback, contributing two RBIs to help his team get back in front.

The game remained tight until the end, but the Kraken’s bullpen held off the Sandlot’s late surge to secure the 11-9 victory. Caleb Heuertz, who pitched 4.1 innings of scoreless relief, was credited with the win for the Kraken.

Both teams showcased their offensive firepower, with a total of 24 runs scored and 24 hits combined. The Kraken’s ability to respond to the Sandlot’s big inning and their strong bullpen performance ultimately made the difference in the game.

3:00PM: GPS Legends (TX) vs. Hays Larks (KS)

The Hays Larks secured a 5-2 victory over the GPS Legends in an exciting matchup.

The Legends struck first, scoring a run in the second inning. However, the Larks quickly responded with two runs in the bottom of the second, highlighted by a triple from Trent Baker, who later scored on an RBI single from Lenny Ashby.

The Larks extended their lead with another run in the third inning, making it 3-1. The Legends fought back in the eighth inning, scoring a run to cut the deficit by one.

In the bottom of the eighth, the Larks added an insurance run, thanks to Luis Garcia’s RBI single. They carried a 5-2 lead into the ninth inning. The Larks’ closer, Jose Velazquez, shut down the Legends in the final inning, securing the victory and earning his first save of the tournament.

Luuk ter Beek was credited with the win for the Larks, delivering a solid performance over 5.2 innings, allowing only one run.

Both teams put up a strong offensive effort, but the Larks’ pitching and timely hitting proved to be the difference. The Legends left ten runners on base throughout the game, while the Larks capitalized on their opportunities to score five runs on ten hits.

6:00PM: Hutchinson Monarchs (KS) vs. Seattle Blackfins (WA)

The Hutchinson Monarchs dominated the Seattle Blackfins with a 12-1 victory.

The Monarchs got off to a strong start, scoring three runs in the first inning. They added another run in the third inning to take a 4-1 lead. In the fourth inning, they exploded with four more runs, highlighted by a three-run home run from Max Buettenback. The Monarchs continued their offensive onslaught in the seventh innings, scoring three runs in the frame to seal their commanding victory.

The Monarchs’ pitcher, Brady Pacha, delivered an impressive performance, allowing only one run in six innings while striking out eight batters. He earned the win for his stellar outing.

On the offensive side, the Monarchs’ bats were red-hot, with Will Edmunson, Max Buettenback, and Jaden Gustafson leading the way with multiple hits and RBIs. Buettenback’s three-run homer was a major highlight of the game.

The Seattle Blackfins struggled to find their rhythm offensively and faced challenges against the Monarchs’ pitching. They managed only five hits and were only able to score one run.

With this victory, the Hutchinson Monarchs showcased their offensive firepower and strong pitching, while the Blackfins will look to regroup and come back stronger.

8:30PM: Santa Barbara FOresters (CA) vs. Great Bend Bat Cats (KS)

In a thrilling extra-inning matchup, the Santa Barbara Foresters emerged victorious with a 5-4 win against the Great Bend \Bat Cats.

The Foresters took an early lead with a run in the second inning, but the Bat Cats responded with two runs in the fourth inning to take a 2-1 lead. However, the Foresters tied the game in the fifth inning, making it 2-2. The Bat Cats regained the lead with two more runs in the sixth inning, but the Foresters fought back to tie the game once again at 4-4 in the seventh inning.

The game remained tied until the bottom of the tenth inning when the Foresters sealed the victory with a walk-off hit. The game-winning run was scored by Greg Pace, who showed great patience at the plate and displayed a strong performance throughout the game.

Both teams had solid pitching performances, with the Foresters’ Carson Turnquist and Robert Cranz putting up a valiant effort to keep their team in the game. Sean Youngerman earned the win, shutting down the Bat Cats’ offense in the final two innings.

The Bat Cats showed resilience and a strong offensive performance, but the Foresters’ clutch play in the extra innings secured their victory.

Overall, it was an exciting and closely contested matchup, highlighting the competitiveness of both teams.

Saturday, August 5th

12:00PM: SC Blues (KS) vs. Denver Cougars (CO)

The Denver Cougars put on a show with a dominant performance, throwing a combined no-hitter in five innings as the defeat the SC Blues 11-0.

Denver started the game with a bang, scoring six runs in the first inning to take control early on. They continued to add to their lead, scoring two more runs in the second inning and another two runs in the fifth inning.

Cougars’ pitcher Austin Wagner was exceptional on the mound, throwing four no-hit innings and striking out an impressive nine batters. He kept the Blues offence off balance and did not allow any runs during his outing.

The Cougars’ offense was firing on all cylinders, with multiple players contributing to the run total. Caleb McClellan, Jonathan Gonzales, Zeke Minic, and Brady Webb all had multiple hits and played key roles in driving in runs. Judah Wilbur also had a notable performance, driving in three runs to help pad Denver’s lead.

On the other side, the Blues struggled to get their offense going against Denver’s pitching. They were held hitless throughout the game and had trouble reaching base against the Cougars’ pitchers.

Tyler Boothe, the Blues’ starting pitcher, had a tough outing, giving up eight runs in just 1.2 innings. The Cougars capitalized on his struggles to build a substantial lead early in the game.

Defensively, the Blues committed two errors, which also contributed to Denver’s offensive success.

The game was a dominant display by the Denver Cougars, with impressive pitching and a powerful offensive performance. They held the SC Blues scoreless and secured an 11-0 victory in a game where they showcased their skills and dominance on both sides of the ball.

3:00 pm: D-bat collegiate leauge (OK) vs. liberal bee jays (KS)

The Liberal Bee Jays dominated the D-BAT All-Stars in a high-scoring game, finishing with a 12-4 victory.

Liberal started the scoring in the bottom of the third inning, cutting into D-BAT’s early lead and making it a 2-1 game. They followed it up with another run in the fourth inning, tying the game at 2-2.

In the fifth inning, D-BAT managed to regain the lead by scoring two runs, but Liberal quickly responded by adding two more runs in the bottom of the fifth, making it a 4-4 game.

The Bee Jays then took control in the seventh inning, erupting for four runs to take an 8-4 lead. They continued their offensive onslaught in the eighth inning, scoring four more runs to end the game via run-rule.

Offensively, the Bee Jays’ bats were red-hot, as they collected 11 hits and capitalized on D-BAT’s defensive miscues. Ryota Kusumoto and Owen May were both standout performers, each contributing two hits and RBIs to lead the team’s offensive charge.

On the pitching side, Holden Carpenter started for the Bee Jays and threw five innings, giving up four runs on nine hits. He was followed by Luke Wilkerson, who pitched a scoreless inning, and Kage Ralstin, who also pitched two shutout innings to close out the game.

For D-BAT, Nate Windle started on the mound and pitched four innings, allowing two runs on four hits. However, the bullpen struggled to contain Liberal’s offense, surrendering 10 runs over the next four innings.

Both teams had their fair share of scoring opportunities, leaving 12 runners on base for D-BAT and 14 for the Bee Jays. However, it was Liberal that capitalized on those opportunities and came away with the commanding 12-4 victory.

The game showcased the Bee Jays’ offensive firepower and their ability to come back from an early deficit. They displayed impressive hitting and took advantage of D-BAT’s defensive struggles to secure a convincing win.

6:00pm: Kansas Cannons (KS) vs. Lonestar Baseball Club (TX)

Lonestar Baseball Club secured a 3-1 victory over the Kansas Cannons in a closely contested match.

Lonestar started the scoring in the bottom of the third inning, taking a 1-0 lead. They added another run in the fifth inning, extending their advantage to 2-0. In the sixth inning, they scored once more, bringing their total to 3 runs.

Cannons struggled to find their offense, managing to score only one run in the top of the seventh inning. Despite having 13 runners left on base, they were unable to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

The standout performers for Lonestar were starting pitcher John Gonzales, who threw 5.2 scoreless innings with four hits allowed and four strikeouts, and Keaton Grady, who contributed with two hits and an RBI.

On the other side, Corbin Talley started on the mound for the Cannons, allowing two runs in five innings of work. The Cannons’ offense was led by Hunter Jansen, who had an RBI and a double, and Carsen Pracht, who added a triple.

Lonestar’s bullpen held the Cannons in check, only allowing one run the rest of the game. EJ Garcia closed out the game, pitching the last two innings and securing the save.

The game showcased strong pitching performances from both teams, with the Lonestar pitching staff effectively limiting the Cannons’ offense. Lonestar’s timely hitting and solid defense proved to be the key factors in their 3-1 victory.

8:30PM: Seattle Studs (WA) vs. Arlington Baptist (TX)

The Sea Studs pulled off a late comeback to secure a 4-3 victory over the Arlington Baptist in a closely contested game.

Arlington Baptist took an early lead, scoring three runs in the first two innings. Two-way player Alex Aleman was the standout performer for the Patriots, contributing three RBIs with a double and also pitching six strong innings.

However, the Studs’ pitcher Sam Hellinger kept the game close, allowing three runs over six innings with seven strikeouts. The Studs’ offense struggled to produce runs until later in the game, scoring their first run in the sixth.

In the seventh inning, the Studs took advantage of a pitching change and loaded bases to score two more runs, taking a 4-3 lead, which they held until the end of the game.

Brice Foster came in for the Studs in relief and pitched three scoreless innings to earn the win.

Both teams had opportunities to score, but solid pitching and defense limited the scoring for most of the game. The Studs showed resilience in the late innings, capitalizing on their chances and securing the 4-3 victory over the ABU Patriots.

Friday, August 4th

12:00PM: Great Bend Bat Cats (KS) vs. sandlot tulsa (OK)

The Great Bend Bat Cats emerged victorious in a hard-fought matchup against Sandlot Tulsa. The final score was 4-2 in favor of the Bat Cats.

The Bat Cats took an early lead, scoring three runs in the first inning, setting the tone for the rest of the game. The scoring continued in the third inning, adding another run to their total.

Pitching was a key factor in the Bat Cats’ success. Starter Kevin Schoneboom went four innings, allowing only one hit and no earned runs. He was followed by Chayse Gruber, who delivered a solid four innings of relief, allowing no hits and no earned runs while striking out five batters. Tyrus Riley closed out the game with a scoreless ninth inning, securing the win and earning the save.

Sandlot Tulsa struggled to generate offense against the Bat Cats’ pitching staff. They managed just one hit and two runs throughout the game. While they showed resilience in the fifth inning, scoring two runs, it was not enough to overcome the early deficit.

Defensively, both teams had a few shaky moments, with a combined total of four errors. However, the Bat Cats managed to limit the damage and ultimately secured the win.

The Bat Cats’ balanced performance, both on the mound and at the plate, propelled them to victory, while the Sandlot Tulsa will look to make adjustments in their upcoming games.

3:00PM: Seattle Blackfins (WA) vs. GPS Legends (TX)

In a matchup between GPS Legends and Seattle Blackfins, the Blackfins came out on top with a final score of 7-3.

The Blackfins got off to a strong start, scoring a run in the first inning, and then followed it up with three runs in the second and another run in the third inning, taking a commanding lead early in the game.

The Legends tried to mount a comeback, scoring a run in the second inning and another in the sixth, but they couldn’t overcome the deficit. They left 10 runners on base throughout the game, while the Blackfins left 11 runners on base.

Blackfins’ starter Ian Roemer put on an impressive performance, going seven innings and allowing only two runs, one earned, on six hits while striking out three. He earned the win for his efforts. Kolby Wheadon took over in the final two innings and allowed one run on two hits.

Legends’ starting pitcher Danny Valadez struggled in his outing, giving up five runs, two earned, on four hits and two walks in just two innings. The Legends’ bullpen had mixed results, with Logan Riggs delivering a solid three innings, allowing one run on two hits.

Offensively, the Blackfins were led by their shortstop, Jeffries, who scored two runs and drew a walk. Kaufman, Herko, and Snyder also contributed with timely hits and runs scored.

For the Legends, Rucker had a good game at the plate, going 2-for-4, while Mazoch, Mendoza, and Valdez each had an RBI.

In the end, the Sea Blackfins’ early lead and strong pitching from Roemer were enough to secure the victory.

6:00PM: Hays Larks (KS) vs. Hutchinson Monarchs (KS)

The Hutchinson Monarchs faced off against the Hays Larks in an intense extra-innings game, with the Monarchs eventually prevailing with a final score of 6-4.

The Larks took an early lead, scoring two runs in the second inning and then adding two more runs in the seventh inning to extend their advantage. However, the Monarchs showed resilience and mounted a comeback in the eighth inning, scoring three runs and one more in the top of the ninth to tie the game at 4-4.

In the eleventh inning, the Monarchs continued their momentum, scoring two more runs to take a 6-4 lead. They held on to that lead in the bottom of the eleventh to secure the victory.

Monarchs’ center fielder Caleb Cotton had a standout performance, going 2-for-6 with two doubles and two RBIs. Jaden Gustafson, the left fielder, also had a significant impact with a double and two RBIs. Will Edmunson and Max Buettenback each contributed a multi-hit game to help power the Monarchs’ offense.

On the pitching side, Brady Beverman started for the Monarchs and threw six solid innings, allowing two runs on five hits with three strikeouts. Cole Toureau and Reed Scott also contributed with crucial innings in relief. Scott earned the win, while Derick Johnson closed the game and secured the save.

For the Larks, Trent Baker, Brady Evans, and Austen Jaslove each had two hits in the game, but their offense couldn’t generate enough runs to overcome the Monarchs’ late surge. Starting pitcher Tyler Schott had a strong outing, going six innings and not allowing a run, but the bullpen couldn’t hold the lead late in the game.

The game was characterized by strong performances from both teams and featured several lead changes and key plays throughout. The Hutchinson Monarchs’ late offensive surge and solid bullpen work were the deciding factors in their victory over the Hays Larks.

8:30PM: Five tool Kraken (TX) vs. Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)

The Five Tool Kraken faced a tough defeat against the Santa Barbara Foresters, with the game ending in a decisive 10-0 victory for the Foresters in six innings.

Santa Barbara wasted no time and started strong, scoring four runs in the first inning. They continued to build on their lead throughout the game, adding at least one run in every inning.

Foresters’ pitcher Zane Petty was dominant on the mound, throwing six scoreless innings, allowing only two hits and striking out six batters. He was in control from the start and led his team to a commanding victory.

Kraken’s pitchers, on the other hand, had a challenging outing. Justin Webster started the game and struggled, giving up six runs in just 2.2 innings. The rest of the staff also faced difficulties, allowing a total of ten runs throughout the game.

Offensively, the Foresters were led by their center fielder Greg Pace and shortstop Jalin Flores, who each scored runs. Will Rogers, Eamonn Lance, and Miguel Santos contributed with timely hits and RBIs to help secure the victory.

For the Kraken, Juhlien González and Case Pettis managed to get hits, but they were unable to generate any runs against the strong pitching of the Foresters.

The game was characterized by the Foresters’ dominant performance both on the mound and at the plate, while the Kraken struggled to find their rhythm. Santa Barbara’s cohesive play and aggressive offense proved to be the key factors in their convincing 10-0 win over Five Tool Kraken.

Thursday, August 3rd

12:00pm: Arlington Baptist (TX) vs. D-Bat COLLEGIATE LEAUGE (ok)

In a high-scoring and eventful game, the Arlington Baptist Patriots emerged victorious with a 9-5 win against the OKC D-BAT All-Stars.

The game began with an offensive outburst in the first inning, with both teams combining for 5 runs. The D-BAT All-Stars took an early lead, scoring 3 runs in the top of the first, led by Garcia, who had a big day with 3 hits and 2 runs scored. However, Arlington Baptist quickly responded, scoring 2 runs in the bottom of the first to keep the game close.

As the game progressed, Arlington Baptist’s pitching settled in, while their offense continued to put pressure on the D-BAT All-Stars. The Patriots’ pitcher, Torti, delivered an impressive performance, lasting 7 innings and allowing 4 runs while striking out 6 batters. The D-BAT All-Stars’ pitching, on the other hand, struggled with control, issuing a total of 9 walks throughout the game.

The turning point came in the bottom of the seventh inning when Arlington Baptist exploded for 4 runs to take the lead. Layne Wilkerson’s home run and Ochoa’s two-run double were the key hits that gave the Patriots a decisive advantage.

Despite the loss, the D-BAT All-Stars showed resilience and managed to score a run in the top of the ninth inning, but it wasn’t enough to mount a comeback against Arlington Baptist’s strong pitching and offense.

JJ Garcia was the standout performer for the D-BAT All-Stars, contributing both on offense and defense. On the other side, the Patriots’ offense was well-distributed, with multiple players getting on base and driving in runs.

In the end, the Arlington Baptist secured a 9-5 victory, thanks to a combination of solid pitching, timely hitting, and capitalizing on the D-BAT All-Stars’ struggles with control.

3:00 PM: sc blues (KS) VS. lONESTAR bASEBALL cLUB (tx)

In an impressive display of pitching and defense, Lonestar Baseball secured a shutout victory over the SC Blues with a final score of 5-0.

Lonestar’s pitching staff led the way, starting with an outstanding performance by their starter, Zach Tjelmeland. He pitched 5 scoreless innings, allowing only 1 hit and striking out an impressive 11 batters. He was effectively backed up by the bullpen, as Davis Luikart, Daniel Farrow, Xander Hall, and EJ Garcia combined for 4 innings of scoreless relief.

Offensively, Lonestar managed to score runs despite collecting only 5 hits in the game. Andre Jackson and Jamie Richey each contributed two hits and an RBI, while Keaton Grady and Tony DeJesus also added an RBI each.

On the other hand, the SC Blues struggled both offensively and defensively. They committed five errors in the game, which contributed to Lonestar’s offensive success. At the plate, the SC Blues managed only 2 hits and were unable to capitalize on the few scoring opportunities they had. The game was marked by excellent baserunning from Lonestar, with Jackson stealing two bases, and Grady, DeJesus, and DJ Pinkerton each adding a stolen base. They were aggressive on the bases and took advantage of SC Blues’ defensive lapses.

In summary, Lonestar’s strong pitching, opportunistic offense, and solid baserunning paved the way for their victory, while the SC Blues struggled both at the plate and in the field. The final score was 5-0 in favor of Lonestar Baseball.

6:00 pm: lIBERAL bEE jAYS (ks) VS. sEATTLE sTUDS (wa)

In an exciting matchup, the Seattle Studs dominated the Liberal Bee Jays with a convincing 10-2 victory.

The Studs got off to a strong start, scoring 2 runs in the first inning and keeping the momentum going throughout the game. They displayed an impressive offensive performance with 12 hits and taking advantage of the Bee Jays’ pitching struggles. Makana Murashige and Ben Schnurman were particularly impactful with 2 RBIs each.

On the pitching side, Studs’ starter Sean Callegari delivered an outstanding performance, going 8 innings, allowing only 2 runs, and striking out 2 batters. He controlled the game and kept the Bee Jays’ offense in check, giving his team a comfortable lead.

The Bee Jays, on the other hand, faced challenges both offensively and defensively. Liberal’s pitcher, Tristin Crusenberry, had a tough outing, allowing 4 runs in 4.2 innings. The defense also committed three errors, which contributed to the Studs’ offensive success.

Despite their efforts, the Bee Jays couldn’t match the Studs’ offensive firepower and struggled to create scoring opportunities. Their only two runs came in the seventh inning when Hudson Polk drove in two RBIs.

Throughout the game, the Studs showcased their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, with strong base running, timely hitting, and solid pitching.

With this win, the Seattle Studs asserted their dominance on the field and displayed a strong performance in all aspects of the game. Meanwhile, the Liberal Bee Jays will look to regroup and bounce back from this tough loss in their future matchups.

 

8:30 pm: dENVER cOUGARS (co) VS. kANSAS cANNONS (ks)

The Kansas Cannons had an impressive performance as they defeated the Denver Cougars with a convincing 8-1 victory.

The Cannons’ offense was firing on all cylinders, amassing 13 hits and capitalizing on scoring opportunities. Jack Wagner and Hunter Jansen led the charge, each with 2 RBIs. Wagner showcased his power with a double, while Jansen also had a double and a single.

On the pitching side, Garret VanDeventer delivered a solid start for the Cannons, going 7 innings and giving up only 1 run. He controlled the game with five strikeouts and limited the Cougars to five hits.

The Cougars struggled to gain momentum against the Cannons’ pitching and defense. Starting pitcher David Stuart had a tough outing, allowing 4 runs in 3.2 innings. Despite the efforts of the Cougars’ offense, they couldn’t generate enough runs to compete with the Cannons’ offensive output.

The Cannons’ defense was also stellar, making several crucial plays to support their pitching staff. They turned three double plays and made the most of their opportunities.

With this win, the Kansas Cannons demonstrated their strength as a well-rounded team with solid pitching, hitting, and defense.

89th NBC World Series Bids

89th NBC World Series Bids

August 3-12th, 2023

Eck Stadium – Wichita State University

 

The 89th NBC World Series, powered by Evergy, will be a three-game guarantee pool-play, followed by single elimination format. Sixteen teams will be seeded prior to games scheduled for Thursday, August 3. Seedings will be based on 2022 NBCWS finishes as a team or league, and overall body of work in 2023. Total Team Compensation is $69,000 cash, increased from $56,000 in 2022, with the top eight finishing teams receiving compensation.

As bids are finalized, the list will be updated with descriptions of all the teams. 

Automatic Bid (2022 Champion) Santa Barbara Foresters (CA):

The Santa Barbara Foresters, who play in the California Collegiate League, are arguably one of the best franchises in NBC history.  Since they were founded in 1995, they have played in every World Series, posting a 124-38 record all time at the World Series, led by NBC Hall of Famer Bill Pintard.  Their first title came in 2006, and they haven’t looked back since.  With 10 NBC World Series Championships, the Foresters return to this year’s tournament looking to win their 4th straight title.  Foresters alumni who have gone on to MLB careers include Jeff McNeil, Ryan Helsley, and Ryan O’Hearn.

Automatic Bid (2022 Runner-up) Hays Larks (KS):

The Hays Larks out of the Rocky Mountain Collegiate Baseball League return to the NBC World Series after making it to the championship game in 2022, under the leadership of NBC Hall of Famer Frank Leo. The Larks are not new to the scene, as they have had 37 appearances in the NBC World Series, posting a 117-72 record in the tournament, and have made appearances in the championship game six times. The Larks have had multiple great players come through the program who went on the MLB careers, including Lance Berkman, Jack Wilson, and future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols.

AABC Stan Musial Oklahoma World Series Champion – Tulsa Sandlot (OK):

First time entry in the World Series.

AABC Stan Musial Texas World Series Champion – Arlington Baptist University Patriots (TX):

First time entry in the World Series.

Centex Collegiate Baseball League Champion – Lonestar Baseball (TX):

Lonestar Baseball will make its sixth entry in the tournament, with a 10-10 record. Seven of the wins came in 2021 and 2022, where they finished second and fifth respectively.

Centex Collegiate Baseball League Runner-Up – GPS Legends (TX):

The GPS Legends will be making their second appearance after going 1-2 in 2018.

Five Tool North Texas League – Lonestar Kraken (TX):

The Kraken make their second appearance after finishing ninth (1-2) in 2022.

Jayhawk Collegiate League First Half Champions – Great Bend Bat Cats (KS):

The Great Bend Bat Cats, who compete in the Jayhawk Collegiate League, is one of the newer teams looking to begin their NBC legacy.  The Bat Cats were founded in 2017, and in their first three seasons, they qualified for the World Series.  In 2021, the bat Cats took 5th in the World Series.  This year, they are looking to make another run at the NBC title.

Jayhawk Collegiate League Second Half Champions – Kansas Cannons (KS):

The Kansas Cannons will be making there 9th appearance at this years World Series.  The Cannons, who were founded in 2010, are lead by former Wichita State and MLB player Phil Stephenson.  They come into the tournament with a 25-12 overall record and as the 2023 Jayhawk Collegiate League Champions. There best finish in the tournament came back in 2019, when they placed 3rd.

Hap Dumont Regional Champion: SC Blues (KS):

The Hap Dumont 19u National Showcase is a tournament hosted in Wichita every year in which the winner gets an automatic bid into the NBC World Series.  This tournament showcases some of the best high school talent in the area.  This year’s showcase Champion was the SC Blues, who will be making their first appearance.

Pacific International League Champion – Seattle Blackfins (WA):

The Blackfins make their first NBCWS appearance as the 2023 Pacific International League Champions.

Rocky Mountain Baseball League Champion – Liberal Bee Jays (KS):

The Bee Jays continue their record appearance at 54 and total tournament wins at 200. Liberal, as Rocky Mountain Baseball League champions, finished third in 2022. They have five titles in 12 title game appearances, with the most recent being 2010. Liberal’s all-time record is 200-101 and 64-36 in MWE action.

Seattle Studs (WA):

The Seattle Studs, who play in the Pacific International League, are one of the most tenured amateur programs in the country.  Since their founding in 1954, the Studs have been a dominant force in the Pacific Northwest and in more recent years, the NBC World Series.  Since 2008, the Studs have made it to seven NBC championships and have been crowned national champions three times. Tim Lincecum, who was a two-time Cy Young Award winner, four-time All-Star, and three-time World Series Champion, was a Seattle Stud before being drafted by the Giants in 2006.

Denver Cougars (CO):

The Cougars make their 18th NBCWS showing and are 25-35 all time (13-23 MWE). Their best finish was third in 2010. Denver joins Liberal and Hays as Rocky Mountain Baseball League representatives.

D-BAT Collegiate League (OK):

Hutchinson Monarchs (KS):

For complete pool play information and schedule, click here: https://nbcbaseball.com/pool-play-schedule/

NBC World Series Tickets On Sale

Tickets to the 2023 NBC World Series, powered by Evergy, are now on sale!

Individual Ticketsclick here

Tournament Pass Flash Saleclick here

Group Ticketsclick here

All-American Club Ticketsclick here

The 2023 NBC World Series runs August 3-12th at Eck Stadium at Wichita State University.  For the answers to Frequently Asked Questions, click here.

1950s Blackouts=Glow-in-the-Dark Baseball

Baseball in the dark? Leave it to Hap.

Perhaps one of NBC founder Hap Dumont’s wildest ideas – of which there were many – was to turn the lights off.

During World War II city-wide blackouts were instituted which required businesses and homes to turn off their lights so that population centers were not easily identifiable to potential enemy aircraft.

Dumont brought the blackout to the baseball diamond for one night during the war. For an exhibition game, he painted the balls, bats, bases and uniforms with a phosphorescent paint and then turned off the lights.

General Electric, intrigued by the concept, offered to attend the exhibition to check out the spectacle.

However, by all accounts, it was a disaster. The lack of depth perception made it almost impossible to play the game safely. On the field, light from the surrounding neighborhood affected the usefulness of the phosphorous and Dumont scrapped the idea before it ever saw the light of day.

Dumont quipped, “I haven’t given General Electric’s laboratories any competition since.”

Nevertheless, the fluorescent ball used, which he dubbed the Glo-Ball, made a return over a decade later.

Dumont used the Glo-Ball during the 1958 tournament (with the lights on) and even experimented with it in an exhibition game in Wichita between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago White Sox.

It drew positive reviews from players – including Stan Musial – who played in that Wichita exhibition with the Cardinals.

A year later the ball went on sale to the public for $2.50.

A fluorescent ball would resurface in the Major Leagues in 1973 when Oakland A’s owner Charlie Finley introduced a fluorescent orange ball for two spring training games.

As Finley had predicted, the ball seemed to benefit the hitters. On March 29, 1973, in a matchup between Catfish Hunter (Oakland) and Gaylord Perry (Cleveland), a combined 16 runs were scored on 27 hits including six home runs. George Hendrick, who hit three of the homers that day said, “…maybe I was just lucky. I couldn’t pick up the spin of the ball.”

In fact, none of the hitters could pick up the spin because the entire ball including the stitches had been dyed orange. After poor reviews from the Major Leaguers at that time, the use of a fluorescent ball in baseball seemed to die in 1973, but its legacy at the National Baseball Congress lives on.

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