Take Me Out To The Ball Game: Annual Hamptons Softball Game Pits Artists Against Writers

One of the longest running traditions on the East End is gearing up for a showdown between the local arts community. On Saturday, August 15th, the East Hampton Artists & Writers 67th annual Softball Game will takeover the baseball diamond at Herrick Park in East Hampton. Always featuring a notable lineup of East End-based authors and artists, previous teams have included President Bill Clinton, Paul Simon, Alec Baldwin, and Matt Lauer.

Batting Practice begins at 12 p.m. and the first pitch is scheduled for 2 p.m. Singers from the Choral Society of the Hamptons will lead the National Anthem. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chair, come hungry for traditional baseball fare, and be ready to root for the home team. This year’s lineup will include Ed Burns, Neil DeGrasse Tyson (who is on the roster for both teams), Gregg Bello, Josh Charles (the ’10 MVP), Carl Bernstein, Rod Gilbert, Brian Burns, Ann Liguori, and Kim Stolz.

Before the big game, meet the players during a Pre-Game Party at LTV Studio (75 Industrial Road, Wainscott) on Friday, August 14th from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The evening will feature game videos, live and silent auctions, food from local restaurants, wines and beer. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door.

Proceeds from both events will benefit The Eleanor Whitmore Early Childhood Center, Phoenix House, The Retreat and East End Hospice.

Herrick Park is located at Newtown Lane in East Hampton. For more information, visit awgame.org.