OMAHA, Neb. — Randy Wetzel, Great Bend High assistant principal, made his College World Series umpiring debut at second base in its first game at T.D. Ameritrade Park, a 7-3 Vanderbilt victory over North Carolina.
Wetzel had a few force plays and one double play call, but no one tried to steal a base. He ventured into the outfield several times to monitor fly balls, but had no close calls.
Wetzel will umpire first base in today’s game at 6 p.m. between Texas A&M and defending champion South Carolina.
He will umpire home plate during Monday’s 1 p.m. game between North Carolina and Texas or Florida.
T.D. AMERITRADE — The new ballpark made a passing grade with good sightlines from everywhere in the park. Access was good and there were plenty of ticket booths available. General admission is $11 per game.
BUSH THROWS STRIKE — Former President George W. Bush II, the former owner of the Texas Rangers, threw a strike for the ceremonial first pitch.
HOME RUN —  Connor Herrell of Vanderbilt made history with the College World Series sixth-inning home run off pitcher Patrick Johnson to the left field bleachers.