On June 11, 2025, Washington’s Nationals Park hosted the annual Congressional Baseball Game, a bipartisan tradition that combines sportsmanship with charitable giving. In its 114th year, the game saw Republicans take a commanding 13 – 2 win over the Democrats, drawing over 30,000 spectators and raising a record-breaking $2.8 million for youth and law enforcement charities. Far from just a friendly match, this event brings together lawmakers from both sides of the aisle for a spirited night of competition, camaraderie, and cause-driven action. Here is a look at who played, how the game unfolded, and why it continues to matter.
How It Went Down
This year’s Congressional Baseball Game showcased a lineup of seasoned lawmakers trading in suits for jerseys. On the Republican side, Rep. Greg Steube of Florida took the mound as the starting pitcher, delivering an impressive seven strikeouts across five innings. His dominance on the mound set the tone for the GOP’s strong defense. Meanwhile, Rep. August Pfluger of Texas stunned the crowd with a diving catch that ended a high-stakes, bases-loaded threat. His performance earned him MVP honors and lit up social media with praise from both teammates and spectators.
The Democrats, led by Rep. Morgan McGarvey of Kentucky, made a valiant effort. McGarvey’s RBI triple brought in their only runs, but it was not enough to close the widening score gap. By the third inning, Republicans had already built a 5 -0 lead, which ballooned with late-game hits. Though the score may not have been close, both teams demonstrated effort and enthusiasm, showcasing the human side of lawmakers beyond Capitol Hill debates.
Enjoying The Action
Held annually at Nationals Park in Washington, DC, the Congressional Baseball Game continues to serve as a landmark summer event for political insiders and baseball fans alike. The 2025 game unfolded on June 11, bringing thousands of attendees to the stadium, alongside millions who followed online and via television. Known for its scenic backdrop and professional-grade facilities, Nationals Park provides an ideal setting for this high-profile tradition, which dates back to 1909.
This year’s attendance surpassed 30,000, a testament to the event’s growing popularity. Fans enjoyed not only the game but also the sense of unity rarely seen in today’s political climate. Organized under the nonprofit Congressional Sports for Charity, the game channeled proceeds to a range of beneficiaries, including the Boys & Girls Club, the US Capitol Police Memorial Fund, and Nationals Philanthropies. It is a setting that combines civic pride with baseball excitement, making the event more than just a game.
Why it Matters
The Congressional Baseball Game is a longstanding tradition with deep charitable roots. Originating in 1909, the event has grown into a high-impact fundraiser, with the 2025 edition raising an unprecedented $2.8 million. That money supports education, community youth programs, and first responder families, reinforcing the game’s legacy as a force for good. It is one of the rare occasions when Congress comes together off the floor for something that benefits the broader community.
In a polarized era, the Congressional Baseball Game also serves as a powerful symbol of bipartisan collaboration. Though played with competitive energy, the match underscores the human connections that exist across party lines. Lawmakers laugh, cheer, and even console each other, reminding Americans that behind every debate is a group of people capable of coming together for shared causes. The Congressional Baseball Game demonstrates that teamwork, whether on the field or in policy, remains a viable option.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Congressional Baseball Game brought people together across party lines for a common cause. With Republicans clinching their fifth straight win, standout athletic performances, and nearly $3 million raised for charity, this year’s event marked a high point in both tradition and generosity. As crowds filled Nationals Park and players gave their all on the diamond, the game stood as a shining example of how competition and community can coexist. For all its political symbolism, the true victory lay in the unity and purpose shared under the stadium lights.
