By Anvil Welch

awelch@joplinglobe.com

Pittsburg Post 64 American Legion baseball manager Mike Watt is sure about one thing when it comes to this week’s Kansas Class AAA Championships.

“It’s very important to stay in the winners’ bracket,” Watt said Thursday.

The other managers and coaches with ballclubs in the eight-team, double-elimination tournament have the same thought, of course, after considering the heat and possible innings for a loser after the first round.

Pittsburg (26-10) and Buhler (24-17) are scheduled to cap the opening session at 8 tonight.

The tourney opens at 11 a.m. today with Lawrence meeting Blue Valley Northwest.

Completing the first round are Arkansas City vs. Olathe South at 2 p.m. and Andover vs. Hays at 5 p.m.

Salina, which didn’t make the field, defeated Lawrence for the title in 2007. Pittsburg, which lost twice to Lawrence, finished third.

Watt, who’s assisted by Kyle Wolf, said right-hander Drew Beasley, who’ll be a sophomore at Fort Scott Community College, will open on the mound against Buhler.

“Drew has thrown very well all summer,” Watt said. “He’s been consistent. We expect him to keep us in the game.”

Win or lose, Watt said, right-hander Brandon Spear probably will start on the hill for Post 64 in its second game.

But Watt indicated the Post 64 strategy might call for Spear to work in relief in Game 1.

The probable Pittsburg batting order is center fielder Joe Wachter, catcher Kenny Wachter, first baseman Willie Watt, shortstop Jesse Watt, third baseman Adam McCormick, left fielder Tanner Smith, designated hitter Shane Drenick, second baseman Tyler Bennett and right fielder Zach White.

Mike Watt said the starting lineup might change if Joe Wachter isn’t recovered from a wrist injury.