EARL WATT
• Leader & Times
The NBC World Series field of teams is set, and the winningest program at the tournament has again qualified.
Liberal will be part of the 2024 tournament.
Last year the Bee Jays became the winningest team in tournament history, and it is also one of the most successful with five national championships and six runner-up finishes.
How will Liberal do in the current pools?
Clearly Liberal has the hardest road.
Let’s take a look at each:
POOL A
Expect the Seattle Studs to win this four-team pairing and Hutchinson Monarchs to be the runner up. Tulsa Sandlot and TPA Texas will battle to be the final qualifier.
POOL B
Santa Barbara had won four of the past six championships and will win this pool. The runner-up will be a toss-up, but expect Seattle Blackfins to advance. Haysville can also make it to the bracket.
POOL C
This is the most competitive pool, Liberal will have to earn the top spot with the San Diego Stars and Derby Twins advancing as well.
POOL D
Hays looks to have the easiest road to bracket play and shot sweep this pool. The Kansas Cannons and Lonestar Baseball Club will likely move on as well.
This should be another outstanding tournament at Eck Stadium in Wichita. Does Liberal have a chance? Yes they do.