by Josh Figueira

Bragging rights are on the line in tonight's Congressional baseball game, and this year's installment of the "mid-term classic" pits a confident Republican squad against a Democratic side that is looking to break out of a 7-year slump. On the other hand, a GOP victory tonight would give them a perfect 8-0 record during the Bush administration.

It will almost certainly be an up-hill (get it?) battle for the Dems, as the Republicans return starting pitcher Rep. John Shimkus (IL 19th), who is a perfect 6-0 in previous partisan pitching duels. The Democrats are expected to counter with Rep. Joe Baca (CA 43rd), a former semi-pro shortstop. It's technically a bicameral affair, but each party will only be fielding one Senator apiece: Sherrod Brown (OH) in the outfield for the Left, and John Ensign (NV) a shortstop/relief pitcher on the Right.

After a successful debut, GOP Skipper Rep. Joe Barton (TX-6th) returns for another go-round, while Democratic Boss Rep. Mike Doyle (PA-14th) looks to improve on his 0-2 record with the team.

This year's contest also comes hot on the heels of the Steroids in Baseball hearings, but with 4 members of the Oversight Committee participating, it's unlikely there will be any juicing from either side of the aisle.