The Brightest Stars

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When Matt Kinsey and Saul Bosquez – members of the Washington Nationals Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team – found out they would be a part of this year’s All-Star festivities in Kansas City, they felt like they had already hit the jackpot. Their invitation to take part in the 2012 Taco Bell All-Star Legends and Celebrity Softball game alongside actors, musicians and baseball greats was reward enough in and of itself. But as Kinsey, Bosquez and all of the Wounded Warriors have reminded us in the past, they don’t play for show. They play to win.

A group of D.C. celebrities and sports figures learned that lesson the hard way first hand back in April, when the Wounded Warriors torched them, 17-4, in an exhibition game at Nationals Park. So it should come as no surprise to any readers who are familiar with their story that the two would come out swinging in Kansas City.

Bosquez started at shortstop – a premiere defensive position – for the American League team and went a perfect 3-for-3 with an RBI. He could not have been more pleased with his performance, or more grateful for the opportunity to play on such a stage.

Matt Kinsey shined last nite earning MVP Award #CelebSoftball Game! Awesome 2 see & hear 40k+fans stand & cheer 4 him & Saul @WWAmpSoftball

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Jennie Finch (@jfinch27) July 09, 2012

“Besides the birth of my son, this has been one of the greatest experiences of my life,” Bosquez said. “We’re so proud to be here and to wear the Curly W.”

But Kinsey was not to be outdone. Playing first base opposite his fellow Wounded Warrior, he went 3-for-3 as well, and belted a home run to key his team’s 21-8 victory. As a result, Kinsey took home the ultimate honor: he was named the game’s Most Valuable Player. Just like Bosquez, Kinsey too was full of nothing but thanks for his chance to shine.

I want to recognize Saul Bosquez & Matt Kinsey, @USArmy veterans and @WWAmpSoftball members: on.fb.me/LCmqDN

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GEN Martin Dempsey (@Martin_Dempsey) July 09, 2012

“To take the field representing the Washington Nationals and play with so many celebrities and Hall of Famers in front of thousands of fans was one of the biggest honors of my life,” Kinsey said.

You can catch Kinsey and Bosquez’s memorable performances tonight beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET following the State Farm Home Run Derby on ESPN.