The host team is making the most of their opportunities at the Cal Ripken Major/70 World Series at Ball Parks of America.

Branson swept their games in Pool Play then in their opening bracket game Wednesday, shutout Southwest 8-0 to advance to the next game at 5:00 Thursday against Kentucky, who beat Pacific Southwest in their opening bracket game Wednesday. North Carolina beat Pacific Northwest and Middle Atlantic knocked off Hawaii to also advance. 

Meanwhile in the Iron Bracket, the other area team was eliminated Wednesday. Midwest Plains beat Arkansas 5-1 before losing to New England 4-2 to end their run in the tournament.