TPM,
I see your point so went back to reread what I was told by one of the places I checked with, who told me this:
"During the College World Series, we have a slightly different cancellation policy, in keeping with what is standard in Omaha during these two weeks. We have a "no cancellation" policy, meaning that if you book the rooms, you are responsible for the rate. If you change your plans, we try our best to rebook the room and don't charge you if we are able to do so. But if the room cannot be rebooked, then you would have to pay for it. Again, this is the standard practice at all Omaha hotels during the CWS."
I took your advice and spent some time earlier today checking around and went ahead and booked in a place 15 or 20 min. away from Omaha, and they didn't seem all feverish over the CWS, so were willing to work with us.
I decided to book just first three nights there and plan to move around a little bit if necessary.
Thanks again for the encouragement to JUST DO IT!