South to Play Ventura All-Star Game Without Westlake High’s Lieberthal

Mike Lieberthal forfeited his chance to play for the South team in the Ventura County All-Star baseball game the moment he signed a Philadelphia Phillies contract last week.

Lieberthal helped lead Westlake High to a 28-2 record this season and Coach Rich Herrera had hoped the catcher would be in the lineup when the all-star game begins today at 1 p.m. at Ventura College.

Herrera, who is co-coach of the South along with Agoura’s Gary Gray, is understanding, however.

“Mike’s got more pressing matters,” Herrera said with a laugh.

The South will still feature a formidable roster that includes three Westlake players: left-handed pitcher Mike Eby, who was 11-0 this season, shortstop Tim Falsken and second baseman Rick Wolters.

In practice, Herrera has been impressed by the hitting of Brent Christenson, a Thousand Oaks outfielder who had 10 runs batted in during three playoff games, and Brian Smith, Agoura’s 6-foot-5 third baseman.

Also playing for the South is Simi Valley second baseman Joe Gordon, the leading home run hitter in the state with 15.

The North team is coached by Dan Smith of Ventura and Dennis Johnson of St. Bonaventure. Buena’s Sam Arroyo (10-0), Rio Mesa’s David Soliz (9-2) and St. Bonaventure’s Kevin Zoll (10-1) will pitch for the North.

Smith pointed to Buena’s Ryan Denger and Rio Mesa’s Carlos Rios as hitters who have performed well in practice.