Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04) tossed out the traditional first pitch at the Babe Ruth State Championship doubleheader featuring Hamilton/Northern Burlington squaring off against Atlantic Shore in the 2020 Southern NJ 15-year-old State Tournament Aug. 12.

     “It was good to get on the field with the Hamilton/Northern Burlington team and toss that first pitch,” said Smith, who for a number of years played in the annual Congressional Baseball Game. “Last night’s game one was a come-from-behind thriller, but unfortunately we couldn’t take game two. Still, it was a great night of baseball and the kids should be proud.”

     Smith took to the mound after the National Anthem as the 15-year-old all-stars from Atlantic Shore and Hamilton/N. Burlington watched his wind-up and delivery with interest. The congressman’s over-the-plate pitch was greeted by a round of applause. The WBCBSports.com announcer Keith Noonan, described the pitch as “Congressman Chris Smith came out and threw the first pitch and it was absolutely perfect. Right down the middle with some speed.” Co-announcer Joe O’Gorman said, “If you see a guy with a little grey hair take the mound for Hamilton-Northern Burlington, be a little suspicious today.”

     Atlantic Shore, the all-stars from Atlantic County, won the State Championship with a 8-3 victory in game two of the double header. Hamilton/Northern Burlington forced the second game with a come-from-behind 7-6 win in the first game.

PHOTO ON RIGHT: Observers said Smith threw a strike down the middle.

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