Republicans win 2022 Congressional Baseball Game, trounce Democrats 10-0

Nine Texans were among the members of Congress who took the field at Nationals Park for the annual Congressional Baseball Game on Thursday night, continuing a century-long tradition that returns to a typical schedule after cancellation in 2020 and a two-month delay in 2021 due to COVID-19. But just because it was a bipartisan affair doesn’t mean it was without politics: United States Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger said Wednesday that there would be increased security amid threats of protests. “Our mission is to protect the Members of Congress during this family event, so we have a robust security plan in place,” Manger said in a statement. “We urge anyone who is thinking about causing trouble at the charity game to stay home. We will not tolerate violence or any unlawful behavior during this family event.” Capitol Police are responsible for protecting the representatives and senators as they play. Manger said Washington, D.C.’s Metropolitan Police Department will address any “unlawful demonstrations” that come up.

Climate activists, including a new coalition of climate organizations called “Now or Never,” among others, had said they planned to peacefully protest at Thursday night’s game for federal legislation to address climate change. Some protestors eventually made their way into the ballpark, chanting from their seats, “What do we want? Climate Justice! When do we want it? Now!” One activist held a sign outside the park that read, “baseball and mass extinction brought to you by [BP and Chevron logos].” 2021?s Congressional Baseball Game wasn’t devoid of squabbles, either. The Republicans and Democrats battled it out on the diamond last September while a government shutdown loomed. Republicans eked out a 13-12 victory, their first win since 2016. Republicans jumped to an early lead this year in the first inning with help from hits by Texans August Pfluger of San Angelo, Kevin Brady of The Woodlands and Jake Ellzey of Midlothian. Halfway through the first, Republicans were up 3-0. By the end — with a big lift from Pfluger as the GOP’s relief pitcher to close out the game — Republicans still held strong, winning 10-0.