Here’s what happened.
Republicans extended their winning streak Wednesday night with another commanding victory in the annual Congressional Baseball Game, defeating Democrats 11-2 before thousands of fans in Washington, D.C.
The victory marks the sixth straight year Republicans have defeated their Democratic rivals in one of Capitol Hill’s most celebrated traditions.
But it wasn’t just the final score that had people talking.
The biggest moment of the night came when Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri made a remarkable diving catch that left him bloodied but earned widespread praise from teammates and spectators alike.
With a Democratic batter threatening to spark a rally in the third inning, Schmitt sprinted toward the left-field line and launched himself through the air to make a highlight-reel grab. The catch prevented an extra-base hit and helped keep Republican momentum firmly in control.
The play came at a cost.
Schmitt suffered a bloody nose on the diving catch but remained in the game and continued contributing in a major way.
His determination paid off.
The Missouri senator finished the night with two hits, two walks, and several key defensive plays. Following the game, Schmitt was named the event’s Most Valuable Player.
“Left it all on the field,” Schmitt wrote on social media after receiving the honor.
WATCH:
Heck of a diving catch by Missouri Senator Eric Schmitt.
— Thomas Hern (@ThomasMHern) June 10, 2026
It should surprise no one that Republicans are better than Democrats at baseball. pic.twitter.com/GW7z9ddJqk
While Schmitt provided the night’s signature moment, Republicans received strong performances across the roster.
Representative Greg Steube of Florida delivered a dominant outing on the mound, pitching all seven innings while allowing just two runs and striking out five Democratic batters.
Steube embraced the patriotic atmosphere of the event, wearing American flag socks and an America 250 cap signed by President Donald Trump.
After securing the victory, Steube celebrated the team’s continued success.
“Another victory for Republicans,” Steube wrote. “That’s six consecutive wins in the Congressional Baseball Game.”
He added that America’s national pastime was the perfect way to celebrate the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
“There is nothing more American than baseball,” Steube said.
Democrats struggled throughout much of the game, committing costly mistakes that allowed Republicans to build an early lead.
A defensive error in the second inning led to additional Republican runs, while Democratic starting pitcher Chris Deluzio of Pennsylvania endured a difficult outing. Deluzio surrendered 10 runs and issued seven walks during his three innings of work.
The annual game continues to serve a purpose far greater than politics.
More than 32,000 tickets were sold for this year’s event, raising over $3.1 million for charities throughout the Washington, D.C., region.
The Congressional Baseball Game has become one of the nation’s most beloved bipartisan traditions, bringing lawmakers together in support of charitable causes while showcasing America’s enduring love for baseball.
With Wednesday night’s victory, Republicans improved their all-time record in the series to 48 wins compared to 42 victories for Democrats, further cementing their recent dominance on the field.
For Republicans, it was another convincing win.
For Senator Eric Schmitt, it was a night that proved sometimes victory requires a little sacrifice.