Journalists win Congressional Women’s Softball Game 22-16

Journalists retake the title

The Bad News Babes defeated Team Congress 22-16 on Wednesday night at Audi Field, reclaiming the Congressional Women’s Softball Game title for the Capitol press corps.

The lawmakers entered with an all-returning roster and a chance to build on last year’s victory, when lightning ended the game in the bottom of the fourth inning. The press team has now won 11 of the past 16 matchups.

Rep. Kathy Castor of Florida pitched for Team Congress. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia was the only senator playing, while Democratic and Republican House members shared the field. Lawmakers returned to Washington for the event even though the House had canceled votes for the remainder of September.

Big hits drive a high-scoring game

The game was tied 7-7 after a hit by Rep. Sharice Davids of Kansas. PBS News journalist Gretchen Frazee then put the Bad News Babes back in front, and the press team extended its lead.

Davids later hit a grand slam, but Team Congress could not close the gap. A hit by Del. Kimberlyn King-Hinds of the Northern Mariana Islands initially appeared to be a home run before officials ruled it a ground-rule double because the ball rolled under the outfield fence.

Rep. Julie Fedorchak of North Dakota credited the journalists’ playing ability and noted that the press team was younger on average.

Game raises money for breast cancer charity

Organizers said the 2026 game raised more than for the Young Survival Coalition, which supports young adults with breast cancer. Since the annual event began in 2009, it has raised more than.

This was the game’s second year at Audi Field after earlier contests were held at an elementary school and recreation center. Congressional staff members and other supporters attended to cheer for the players.