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Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Porter Ranch) smiled broadly when asked who he thought would win the 56th annual Congressional Baseball Game.

America, he said with a laugh.

The charity game on Thursday night began on a somber note with a prayer and a moment of silence for House Majority Whip SteveScalise(R-La.) and three others who were shot by a gunman on Wednesday at the GOP team's practice for the event.

After the lawmakers on the Democratic and Republican rosters rose from their knees in prayer, fans and players quickly got caught up in the traditional rivalry at Nationals Park in Washington.Thousands of fansbooed or cheered when their partisan teamsmade a play, and pulled out their phones to film the Nationals' mascots the running presidents race around the bases. (Teddy Roosevelt won by cutting the final corner.)

Shortly after the shooting, coaches for both teams said they would go forward with the game. They seemed determined to show unity after agunman who appeared to be targeting Republicans unleashed a spray of bullets on the practice field in Alexandria, Va., and was eventually stoppedby police.

During the game, a Washington hospital announced that Scalise remained in critical condition. ACapitol Police officerwho was injured while helping stop the attacker threw out the ceremonial first pitch, hobbling out on crutches to a standing ovation.

Indicators of Wednesdays shooting were sprinkled throughout the stadium. Police were very visible at the event that sold a record25,000 tickets and raised $1 million.Many fans, including ones who identified as Democrats, carried signs that read "ScaliseStrong" or "GeauxScalise." Members of Congressfrom both parties wore Capitol Police and Louisiana State University hats to honor Scalise's alma mater.

Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-Redlands) saidthere was a lot less trash-talking on the field this year and members spent more time checking on one another.

"The energy was very positive. Itwas one of unity and very sincere concern for Rep. Scalise. There was a lot of camaraderie," Aguilar said.

With a final score of 11-2, Democrats received the coveted trophy. Democratic coach Rep. MikeDoyle of Pennsylvania called Republican coach Rep. Joe L. Barton of Texas to the microphone and said his team wanted the trophy to be displayed inScalises office until the Louisiana congressman returns.

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Congressional Baseball Game is played a day after shooting - Los Angeles Times