Jackie Robinson West Advances To Little League World Series
(CBS) -- Chicago Little League fans have been waiting for more than 30 years, but the city finally boasts a team that will be playing in the Little League World Series.
Jackie Robinson West was one step away from advancing to Williamsport last year, but they fell just short. But now they're on their way the series.
The team had dominated the Great Lakes Regional going into Saturday, but found themselves down 5-0 to New Albany, Ind.
They worked their way back, and then exploded for a seven-run fifth inning, which was highlighted by a Cameron Buford grand slam. That gave Jackie Robinson West the lead for good, and they went on to win 12-7.
The schedule for their opening game is already set. They'll face the Northwest Regional Champion from Lynnwood, Wash. on Thursday Aug. 14 at 2 p.m.
The last team to represent Chicago in the Little League World Series was the same Jackie Robinson West squad -- way back in 1983.
"I want the whole team and Coach (Darold) Butler to know that Chicago is rooting for them, and as they take the field for the Little League World Series, they will be taking the best wishes of an entire city with them," Mayor Rahm Emanuel said in a written statement.