Washington, D.C. – In his final game at Nationals Stadium, Congressman Brian Baird turned in an MVP performance as he led Democrats to a 13-5 victory over Republicans in the 49th Annual Congressional Baseball Game.  Batting clean up, Baird went 3 for 4 and drove in 2 runs.  His 3rd inning RBI gave Democrats their first lead of the game and ignited the team’s run production. 

“It was a great win and I was thrilled to have been chosen one of the game’s 3 MVP’s,” said Baird. “Having my wife and boys and many of my former and current staffers at the game was a very special and memorable way to end my participation in the Congressional Baseball Game.”  

Baird, a former Little League and high school baseball player, sported a Clark College Baseball uniform.  In years past, he has donned uniforms from Longview Babe Ruth, Centralia College, Chehalis Little League, Camus High School, Hazel Dell, and Central Vancouver.     

The game raised more than $150,000 for the Washington Literacy Council and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington's Metropolitan Police.  Rachel Robinson, the widow of baseball great Jackie Robinson, was on hand to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.  Washington Representatives Jay Inslee and Adam Smith also suited up for the Democrats.

     
The Congressional Baseball Game originated in 1909 and pits Democrats against Republicans to raise money for local charities as well as create bipartisan fun for the members their staff and the general public.  

To see photos from the Congressional Baseball Game, click here.