WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Mo Brooks on Wednesday announced he will start at first base for the Republicans in the Thursday, July 28, Congressional Baseball Game for Charity. The game, played at Washington Nationals Park, is an annual Washington tradition that pits Democrats against Republicans in a game for charity. Local D.C. charities are expected to receive a minimum of $1.7 million from this year’s game.
The Republicans are looking to defend their crown, having won a 13-12 thriller last year. The game will be broadcast nationally by both FOX Sports and C-SPAN. First pitch is at 7:05 p.m. EDT, 6:05 p.m. CDT.
In last year’s GOP victory, Brooks (at 68, the game’s most “experienced” starting player) played the entire game at first base, batted twice, scored two runs, made no errors and made the defensive play of the game: a bare-handed catch off an errant throw to get the Democrat batter out at first.
Brooks said, “The Congressional Baseball Game is a great tradition that brings Republicans and Democrats together at the Washington Nationals stadium. Tens of thousands of fans attended last year’s game. I can’t wait to participate in this great American pastime while my family and friends (including five children and 12 grandchildren) cheer us on.
“I hope our four months of 6 a.m. morning practices (some in sleet and on icy fields) pay off. This year’s Republican team is the best since I’ve been in Congress. While I am sure the Democrats will do everything they can to beat the stew out of us, I’m optimistic we will keep the winner’s trophy on the GOP side of the House floor.”
