East Valley's Best

Saturday, July 26, 1958

A lot was at stake for West Covina American and Pacific Coast of West Covina today at Glendora Little League Field: the District 19 title, of course, but the outcome would also decide the City Championship, and beyond that, secure the winner bragging rights as the best Little League team in the East San Gabriel Valley.

It was a hard-fought game. West Covina American pitching ace Don Bunch was truly on fire, striking out 14 while giving up only 1 hit, and extending his post-season scoreless-innings streak to 12. Pacific Coast was strong on defense, though, stranding 11 WCALL baserunners. With nothing but goose eggs on the scoreboard through 5-1/2, the break came when Steve Fox hit safely with a runner on in the bottom of the last frame to end the game.

Pacific Coast of West Covina.....000 000–0 1 1
West Covina American.............000 001–1 4 2

I noted with some concern that Mike Okura was hit by 2 pitched balls today. I'd hate to think that was intentional...

Here's Dad accepting the District 19 Championship trophy. Pretty impressive for a local-level Little League award, isn't it? I know I have a couple of family photos of this beaut somewhere, but I can't seem to find them at the moment.

In my dad's notes, I found this bracket of the 1958 tourney action thus far. Out of all 13 Little League teams in the eastern SGV, WCALL had come out on top.

Now it's on to the Bi-District playoff next week in Covina!

Today's official score sheet.