By BRETT R. CROSSLEY
For Talk Williamsport
WILLIAMSPORT—With a rain out only leaving the Little League World Series with one meaningful game Tuesday it means Wednesday’s schedule will be loaded with three games.
All contests will mean something as the Consolation games have both been played. The possibility of an all North America final is still very real as Mexico, Canada, and a handful of U.S. teams still remain. Here’s a rundown of the games tomorrow.
Game 22
Mid-Atlantic vs. New England at Lamade Stadium, 11 a.m.
The Series will see its second rematch as the New England and Mid-Atlantic regions square off in the morning. It will be the first of three games at Lamade.
This one should be tight as both teams appear to be peaking at the same time. The New England 7-6 win over the Mid-Atlantic was far from convincing. The Mid-Atlantic scored runs in bunches at the end and nearly knocked New England off. Both teams are coming off big wins as the Mid-Atlantic beat the West, 12-9, and New England defeated the Northwest, 14-6.
Game 23
Japan vs. Canada at Lamade Stadium, 3:30 p.m.
Japan has the second most Little League World Series wins in the history of the tournament. Canada is simply trying to make a name for itself.
Both teams meet to determine the first representative in the International Bracket’s championship game.
Reid Hefflick will be the top priority for Japan. He finished with a homerun against Latin America along with picking up the win from the mound.
Japan’s Riku Goto went the distance to shut down the Asia-Pacific in Japan’s 4-1 win. Surprisingly, after such a dominant performance against one of the Tournament’s elite, it was mentioned Goto isn’t even Japan’s ace.
Game 24
Southeast vs. Southwest at Lamade Stadium, 7:30 p.m.
The Southeast, thanks to a perfect game and a no-hitter, look like the favorite to represent the United States in the Championship.
The Southeast has been led by Chase Anderson, Matthew Matthijs, and Will Casey, who have combined for all the pitching success.
The Southeast can also get the job done with the bats. It has outscored the opposition 22-0 in two games. It has also showed no signs of slowing down. The Southwest is going to need to be perfect on defense if it hopes to contain the Southeast. This game should be close, but there is no reason to think the Southeast won’t continue its run.
