Baseball History The Little League World Series of 1961

About the Little League World Series baseball tournament held in 1961, history of the youth sports event and the games.

1961--15TH LITTLE LEAGUE WORLD SERIES

El Cajon Little League of California rode a mighty homerun blast in the final inning to a 4-2 win over the stunned El Campo Little League of Texas to lock up the 1961 title.

Playing before more than 16,000 perspiring fans, it appeared for a time that the cherished crown was headed for the Lone Star State.

California took the lead in the 2nd inning when Mike Salvatore, El Cajon pitcher, was hit by a pitch, stole 2nd, went to 3rd on a wild pitch, and then came home on a single by teammate Carl Buffo.

In the 4th frame El Campo came up with its 1st run when, with the bases loaded and with the Texans anxious to score, Bill Shutt bunted and Salvatore's throw to his catcher, Roger Cargin, went astray.

One out later, Phil Winfield crossed the plate on a passed ball to put the Lone Star State ahead, 2-1.

It was in the 6th inning that the California bats began to explode. Mickey Alasantro singled. Todd Lieber followed with a one-bagger and the California fans began to smell a rally. Salvatore took 2 pitches for a 2-0 count and then unloaded a 200' screamer over the fence to save the day for the West Coast.

In the consolation game, Monterrey, Mexico, rode to a 4-0 victory over Hilo, Hawaii. Eliminated earlier in Series play were teams from Levittown, Pa.; Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Terre Haute, Ind.; and Pirmasens, Germany.

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