Skip to content

Call: (316) 265-6236

NBC Baseball
300 N Mead Ste 109
Wichita, KS 67202
Get Directions

Women Umpires Take the Field – in the 1940s

While Hap Dumont was ahead of his time in many ways, perhaps one of his most impactful promotions involved hiring women as umpires for the National Baseball Congress National Tournament. In 1943, Dumont hired Lorraine Heinisch to umpire one game. It was the same year hundreds of women tried out for the inaugural season of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, but women having any role in men’s baseball was unprecedented. 

NBC World Series umpire coordinator Jon Browar spent over 30 years as a collegiate umpire, and currently is the NCAA Division II national coordinator of umpires. He talked about the decision by Hap Dumont and the NBC to include female umpires.

“I would put [hiring women umpires in the 1940’s] on par with Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in baseball,” said Browar, “That was way, way ahead of the time. I’m sure there were plenty of naysayers.” 

Heinisch was promoted and referred to as a “wump” short for woman umpire. The move received press coverage from both local and national outlets. 

Later in 1967, Bernice Gera, worked as a third base umpire in the opening game of the NBC Tournament. Gera’s appearance was promoted ahead of the tournament. Gera would go on to become the first woman to umpire a professional baseball game in 1972, following a lengthy legal battle. 

“For the life of me, I don’t understand why women can’t be baseball umpires,” said Gera during her legal fight, “You don’t have to be an athlete to be an umpire. All you need is to know baseball, have good eyesight and good judgement. There are a lot of women who can fill that bill. I’m certain we will some day have women umpiring in the majors – maybe sooner than you think.”

In 1988, the NBC pursued Pam Postema, a minor league triple-A umpire to work some of the tournament’s games. That same year Postema became the first woman to umpire a Major League Baseball Spring Training game and the last until Ria Cortesio in 2007. 

Last year, Jen Pawol became the first woman to umpire at the Triple A level in 34 years, and in 2024 umpired MLB Spring Training games. Pawol was just one of two women umpiring in the minor leagues in 2023, along with Isabella Robb, while no women have umpired a regular-season MLB game. Women continue to be underrepresented in umpire schools and on the field, but Browar said there are several female umpires in the minor league pipeline. 

“You’re always going to have the group of people who feel that it’s not a place for women – I think that mindset is changing,” Browar said. “I think it’s a matter of time, I think if you line up people, you’re going to get a woman who’s going to get an opportunity.” 

As Jen Pawol took the field as the first woman to umpire MLB spring training games since 2007, it is evident that while progress has been slow, the progress is there. And the NBC World Series had a hand in pushing forward the careers of female umpires, starting more than 80 years ago.

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.

Teams & Pool Play Schedule

 

Click Here to Download

The National Baseball Congress World Series, powered by Evergy, kicks off at Wichita State’s Eck Stadium on Thursday, August 3rd for the 89th NBC World Series. Welcoming 16 teams from across the country for the 89th playing, the NBC World Series has been held in Wichita every year since 1935.

2023 NBC World Series Pool Play

2023 NBCWS Schedule & Bracket

The first six days of the NBC World Series will be pool play, with four pools of four teams. Three teams from each pool will advance to single elimination play, which starts on Wednesday, August 9th.

Pool A

Denver, CO Cougars (2-1)

Kansas Cannons (2-1)

Lonestar, TX Baseball Club (2-1)

Sedgwick County Blues (0-3)

Pool B

Great Bend, KS Bat Cats (2-1)

Five Tool Kraken (1-2)

Sandlot Tulsa, OK (0-3)

Santa Barbara, CA Foresters (3-0)

Pool C

Arlington, TX Baptist (1-2)

Liberal, KS Bee Jays (2-1)

D-BAT Collegiate League (1-2)

Seattle, WA Studs (2-1)

Pool D

GPS, TX Legends (0-3)

Hays, KS Larks (2-1)

Hutchinson Monarchs (3-0)

Seattle, WA Blackfins (1-2)

Pools A & C will play Thursday/Saturday/Monday

Pools B & D will play Friday/Sunday/Tuesday

Gametimes & Final Scores:

Thursday, AUgust 3rd

12:00 PM: Arlington Baptist 9 – D-BAT Collegiate League 5

3:00 PM: SC Blues 0 – Lonestar Baseball 5

6:00 PM: Liberal Bee Jays 2 – Seattle Studs 10

8:30 PM: Denver Cougars 1 – Kansas Cannons 8

Friday, August 4th

12:00 PM: Great Bend Bat Cats 4 – Sandlot Tulsa 2

3:00 PM: Seattle Blackfins 7 vs. GPS Legends 3

6:00 PM: Hays Larks 4 vs. Hutchinson Monarchs 6

8:30 PM: Five Tool Kraken 0 vs. Santa Barbara Foresters 10

Saturday, August 5th

12:00 PM: SC Blues 0 vs. Denver Cougars 11

3:00 PM: D-BAT Collegiate League 4 vs. Liberal Bee Jays 12

6:00 PM: Kansas Cannons 1 vs. Lonestar Baseball 3

8:30 PM: Seattle Studs 4 vs. Arlington Baptist 3

sunday, August 6th

12:00 PM: Sandlot Tulsa 9 vs. Five Tool Kraken 11

3:00 PM: GPS Legends 2 vs. Hays Larks 5

6:00 PM: Hutchinson Monarchs 12 vs. Seattle Blackfins 1

8:30 PM: Santa Barbara Foresters 5 vs. Great Bend Bat Cats 4

Monday, August 7th

12:00 PM: D-BAT Collegiate League 5 vs. Seattle Studs 4

3:00 PM: Kansas Cannons 9 vs. SC Blues 0

6:00 PM: Liberal Bee Jays 13 vs. Arlington Baptist 3

8:30 PM: Lonestar Baseball Club 2 vs. Denver Cougars 1

tuesday, August 8th

12:00 PM: GPS Legends 11 vs. Hutchinson Monarchs 12

3:00 PM: Sandlot Tulsa 4 vs. Santa Barbara Foresters 11

6:00 PM: Five Tool Kraken 8 vs. Great Bend Bat Cats 17

8:30 PM: Seattle Blackfins 3 vs. Hays Larks 16

 

Tickets start at $10 for general admission, or $15 for reserved seating, and tickets are good for the full day’s slate of games. They can be purchased online at nbcbaseball.com or at the Eck Stadium Box Office on game days.

 

Bracket play will start on Wednesday, August 9th, with the top team from each pool receiving a bye. Quarterfinals will be played on August 10th, Semi-Finals at 6:00pm and 8:30pm on August 11th, and first pitch on August 12th’s Championship Night will be at 7:00pm. All games will be played at Wichita State University’s Eck Stadium.

 

The NBC World Series will pay out $69,000 in total cash compensation for the top eight teams. The breakdown of compensation is:

  • 1st – $18,000
  • 2nd – $15,000
  • 3rd – $9,000 – two teams
  • 5th – $4,500 – four teams 

Information on streaming, the NBC World Series app, radio broadcasts and live stats can be found on nbcbaseball.com as the tournament begins.

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.

MLB Pitch Clock Has Roots in Wichita’s National Baseball Congress

If you’ve been following Major League Baseball this spring one thing you’ve undoubtedly noticed is that baseball games are faster…much faster. With the introduction of the pitch clock this year, game times are down over 30 minutes from the 2022 season, as of mid-April.

According to Morgan Sword, Executive VP of Major League Baseball, in reference to the pitch clock “…it’s probably the biggest change that’s been made to baseball in most of our lifetimes.”

WHAT YOU MOST LIKELY DON’T KNOW, is that sixty-one years before MLB implemented the “biggest change of our lifetimes”, it was Raymond “Hap” Dumont and the National Baseball Congress who first instituted a 20-second timer with penalties for infractions.

The 20-second pitch clock had technically been in the MLB rule book since 1901, but Dumont’s announcement in January 1962 for the National Baseball Congress’ annual tournament marked the first time that a pitch clock would be enforced in organized baseball. 

Dumont and his team worked with Timex to install a timer on the scoreboard prior to the ‘62 tournament in Wichita. If a pitcher failed to deliver a pitch within 20 seconds of receiving the ball back from the catcher a horn would sound and a “ball” would be called. Hitters were timed as well. They had 20 seconds to be in the batter’s box after the previous batter had either made an out or reached base, and a “strike” was called on the batter if they were tardy. 

Dumont, as he always did, added his own flair to the pace of play initiative, instituting a 90-second clock between innings as well. For Dumont, the quicker pace meant that more games could be played in the tournament, which meant more money for Dumont and tournament stakeholders.

Of the 64 games during the 1962 tournament, only 14 violations occurred and according to Dumont game times were slashed by 25 minutes. 

There was one slight hiccup. During a quarterfinal game, rain short-circuited the timer rendering it unusable. That game, between the Ocala Merchants (FL) and Grand Rapids Sullivans (MI), lasted three hours and 12 minutes.

After drawing rave reviews from players, managers, scouts and fans, Dumont predicted that within two years Major League Baseball would adopt his timer. 

Turns out he was only off by 59 years.

2023 NBC World Series Announced

National Baseball Congress World Series

The National Baseball Congress World Series, powered by Evergy, and Wichita State University announced a two-year partnership, solidifying a home in Wichita for the historic tournament for 2023 and 2024.

“We are thrilled to call Eck Stadium home for the next two years, and to bring the tournament fully back to Wichita” said NBC Tournament Director Katie Woods, “Wichita has been the home of the NBC since 1935, and the Wichita State athletic department has been great partners as we work to make the 89th year a fantastic one for both teams and fans.”

The NBC World Series is the country’s premier summer collegiate baseball tournament, and features teams from across the United States annually. The NBCWS was founded in 1935 by Hap Dumont in Wichita and was played at Lawrence-Dumont Stadium through 2018. Known for its unique promotions and high-quality baseball, the National Baseball Congress has had more than 800 former players go on to play Major League Baseball.

“Wichita State Athletics is honored and blessed to continue our long-standing partnership with and support of the NBC Tournament,” said Senior Associate Director of Athletics Brad Pittman.  “Eck Stadium, Home of Tyler Field, is a premier collegiate baseball facility capable of providing a first-class student-athlete and participant experience.”

Sixteen teams are slated to participate in the 2023 NBC World Series, with bids being announced over the summer, prior to the tournament. Defending champion Santa Barbara Foresters (CA), as well as the runner up Hays Larks (KS), both receive guaranteed bids for their finishes in the 2022 NBC World Series.

“For 2023 we are focused on two things – improving the experience for fans by bringing back the fun and energy that the NBC has been known for in Wichita, and improving the team experience and competition,” said Woods. “On the team side that includes increasing team compensation by more than 25%, creating a team ambassador program, building a better network of transportation, meal and entertainment partners, and solidifying the bids earlier. For fans, that means a simpler ticketing format, bringing back the Coleman Hill experience where fans can bring their own food and (non-alcoholic) beverages, added entertainment, and more partnerships throughout the community.”

Tickets to the 89th NBC World Series will go on sale in June. More information can be found year-round at NBCBaseball.com, or on social media at @NBCBaseball.

Be the first to know about NBC updates by signing up for the NBC World Series Insider HERE

 

2022 NBC All-Americans Announced

NBC All-Americans Announced for 2022

WICHITA, Kan. – The 2022 NBC All-Americans all played key roles in advancing their respective teams through the 88th NBC World Series powered by Evergy. The Santa Barbara Foresters claimed their 10th National Championship, becoming only the third team in NBCWS history to win three championships in a row. Foresters manager Bill Pintard was selected as Manager of the Year. The presenting sponsor for the NBC All-American Team is Hook Bats, www.hookbats.com. Each All-American will receive a customized commemorative bat.

2022 NBC World Series All-American Team

Pitchers

Anthony Brady                     Seattle Studs (WA)                                              1.50 ERA, 1-0 Record, 2 APP, 18 Innings, 15 K’s, 1 BB

Will Maynard                        Hutchinson Monarchs (KS)                                0.00 ERA, 2 APP, 12.33 Innings, 16 K’s, 1 BB, 5 Hits

Brady Rose                            Hays Larks (KS)                                                     0.75 ERA, 2-0 Record, 12 Innings, 14 K’s, 3 BB, 4 Hits

Parker Smith                         Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)                            1.50 ERA, 2-0 Record, 12 Innings, 11 K’s, 2 BB

Catchers

Alex Birge                              Hutchinson Monarchs (KS)                                .250 BA, HR, 6 RBI, 1.000 FLD %, 33 PO, 2-4 TOS

Infielders

1B – Gavin Kash                    Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)                            .520 BA, 13 Hits, 8 RBI, 6 2B, .760 SLG%, 1.000 FLD%

2B – Gianni Horvat              Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)                            .500 BA, 8 Hits, 6 RBI, .563 SLG%, 1.000 FLD%

3B – Sawyre Thornhill         Hutchinson Monarchs (KS)                .               385 BA, 5 Hits, HR, 3 RBI, .615 SLG%, .467 OB%

SS – Ryan Leary                    Liberal Bee Jays (KS)                                            .500 BA, 6 Hits, .583 SLG%, .571 OB%, .941 FLD%

Outfielders

Lenny Ashby                         Cheney Diamond Dawgs (KS)                            .500 BA, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 5 Hits, 1.200 SLG%, .615 OB%

Leo Jiminian                          Hays Larks (KS)                                                     .421 BA, 3 2B, 8 Hits, 1.000 FLD%

Nick McLain                          Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)                            .571 BA, HR, 5 RBI, 12 Hits, .952 SLG%, 1.000 FLD%

Utility

Nate Rombach (C/DH)        Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)                            .434 BA, 2 HR, 8 RBI, 4 2B, 10 Hits, 6 Games, .869 SLG%

Designated Hitter

Ronnie Bailey                        Lonestar Baseball Club (TX)                               .333 BA, 5 RBI, HR, 4 Hits, .583 SLG%, 2 SB

Manager – Bill Pintard, Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)

MVP – Gavin Kash, Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)

Home Run Trophy – Nate Rombach, Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)

Leading Prospect to the Majors – Gavin Kash, Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)

Eric Pintard Most Inspirational Player – Leo Jiminian, Hays Larks (KS)

Best Team Offensive – Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)

Best Team Defensive – Liberal Bee Jays (KS)

Best Team Pitching – Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)

Leading Pitcher – Will Maynard, Hutchinson Monarchs (KS)

Leading Hitter – Nick McLain, Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)

Michael Dean RBI Award – Gavin Kash, Santa Barbara Foresters (CA)

Outstanding Local Player – Brady Pacha, Haysville Aviators (KS)

Hap Dumont Award – William “Bill” Polzin

Plans being made for 86th NBC World Series

WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – For 85 years, through both the Great Depression and World War II, the NBC World Series hasn’t missed a beat.

While the coronavirus pandemic has put the clamps on the sports world over the past few months, the annual Summer baseball classic is moving forward.

“We are planning to play the NBC World Series to start sometime in July or early August,” said Kevin Jenks, Tournament Director/General Manager for the NBC World Series.

While teams have come from as far away as Alaska in years past, Jenks says that might not be the case this year.

“Typically, we’ve had a field of 30-32 teams, we are probably going to be looking at something like half that now,” said Jenks.

In years past, the NBC World Series took place at Lawrence Dumont Stadium. In 2019, it moved over to Eck Stadium at Wichita State University, while Riverfront stadium was being built.

“We do have an agreement in principle with the Wind Surge that we will play down there, but we are at the mercy of Major League Baseball right now,” said Jenks.

With the Wichita Wind Surge season hanging in the balance, the NBC World Series could potentially be the first event held at the new ballpark.

“If they don’t have any other events and if they feel the NBC World Series makes sense to have the first major event there, then that’s great, that’s fantastic,” said Jenks.

In order to make it all happen, Jenks says there will need to be fans in the stands.

“We couldn’t hold the NBC World Series without fans, so, we will need to meet a minimum requirement basically of how many fans, we are still looking at that from a lot of different models,” said Jenks. “We will make sure that the safety of our players and our fans first and foremost.”

Jenks says they are looking at two different scenarios revolving around the 86th NBC World Series.

He says one would be the opportunity of the NBC World Series being played earlier in August. Another scenario would include starting up in mid-August.

What does MLB plan to return mean for Wichita Wind Surge, NBC World Series?

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) Will the Wichita Wind Surge take the field this summer? Will the tradition-rick NBC World Series played in Wichita every late July into August go on as scheduled?

These are a couple questions Eyewitness News looks into following Major League Baseball’s announced plan to begin its 2020 season on July 4.

The news from the MLB is something Wichita Wind Surge owner Lou Schwechheimer says is a welcome first step for baseball fans. The Wind Surge is a Triple-A affiliate for the Miami Marlins.

Schwechheimer says he’s been in constant communication with league officials and that any decision regarding when the Wind Surge could play would come from Minor League Baseball. He adds that seeing baseball in Wichita is important, but not as important as keeping players, workers and fans safe and healthy.

As Wichita’s new professional team waits for news on whether it’ll be able to make its debut this summer, one of the game’s oldest tournaments in Wichita also waits to see if it can go on.

“The plan is to play the NBC World Series this summer, going 86 years strong,” says NBC World Series General Manager and Tournament Director Kevin Jenks. He says tournament officials are working through their own set of obstacles in hopes of avoiding a break in the tradition,from trying to find host families for players, working with amateur leagues across the country and talking with local health officials.

Jenks says the ideal time frame is for the tournament to still happen in late July and early August, but with nothing set in stone, he says the talks with Sedgwick County health officials are constant.

But unlike Major League Baseball, Jenks says the NBC World Series couldn’t go on if fans can’t attend the games.

“If we are in a situation where we can’t have fans in the stands, then the NBC World Series won’t happen,” he says. “Just the revenue that comes from the tickets and everything associated with people attending the game, that would certainly limit us.”

Jenks notes that the NBC World Series wants to be something for the entire Wichita community to enjoy, but more importantly wants to make sure playing the tournament is the right thing to do.

“We are just going to play the hand that we are dealt and go from there,” he says. ‘Right now, we are planning to play and are looking forward to it.”

 

 

  • Our Partners
  • Our Partners
  • Our Partners
  • Our Partners
  • Our Partners
  • Our Partners
  • Our Partners
  • Our Partners
  • Our Partners
  • Our Partners
  • Our Partners

Share This