Thousand Oaks Big League creeps closer to title game
By Stephen Dorman sdorman@theacorn.com

There's going to be a party. That much is assured.

The overall mood of the impending gala will be determined in the coming days.

On Tuesday at 6 p.m., the city of Thousand Oaks is planning a celebration for the Thousand Oaks Big League All-Star team at Gardens of the World in T.O.

The 16 to 18yearold baseball squad is currently playing in the Big League World Series in Easley, S.C. This season is the fourth time in five years Thousand Oaks has qualified for the World Series. Last year the team won its first world championship.

"It's important to recognize their accomplishments, win or lose," Thousand Oaks Little League President John Short III said. "They've gone the distance and represented the western part of the United States with class."

After winning its first three tournament games in convincing fashion- Thousand Oaks has outscored teams from the East, Central and Southwest 45-10- the local boys took Wednesday off to prepare for tonight's showdown against South Carolina District 7. First pitch is set for 4:30 p.m. PDT.

South Carolina District 7 is one of two representatives from the state. South Carolina District 1 is the host team.

A Thousand Oaks win tonight would guarantee the team a spot in Friday's U.S. semifinal. Because of potential tiebreakers, a loss likely sends T.O. home. Friday's game will also be played at 4:30 p.m.

On Saturday at 10 a.m. ESPN will televise the World Series finale, featuring the United States vs. an international team. Visit www.bigleagueworldseries.org for more information, including access to streaming broadcasts.