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For N.J. Gov. Christie, NYPD Charity Game Also Hits Close To Home

NEW YORK (WFAN) -- New Jersey Governor Chris Christie was playing third base with a heavy heart, not only for the three fallen NYPD officers honored during Wednesday night's "True Blue" charity softball game at Yankee Stadium, but also for one of his own.

Christie, reflecting on the event with organizers Boomer Esiason and Craig Carton, said a "tough day" lies ahead with 24-year-old New Jersey state trooper Anthony Raspa being laid to rest.

Tpr. Anthony Raspa
Tpr. Anthony Raspa (Credit: New Jersey State Police)

"Being there last night was a great way to honor his memory as well," Christie said of Raspa, who was killed after striking a deer in his patrol car Saturday.

The governor said he will attend Thursday's funeral.

Chris Christie Reflects On 'True Blue'

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Christie -- the unofficial MVP of Game 1 -- admitted during WFAN's "Boomer & Carton" show that taking the infield got his blood pumping "a little bit." But it didn't show, with the Gov. flashing the glove for the second straight year in the Bronx.

"Spring chicken, I'm not so sure about," said Christie, who was among dozens of celebrities on hand for the event held in memory of slain NYPD officers Brian Moore, Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu. "Here's what I said to (Buffalo Bills head coach) Rex Ryan afterward -- we made a pact to each other in the locker room before the game that we just were not going to embarrass ourselves -- you know, if you keep the bar low enough, you can exceed expectations."

PHOTOS: BOOMER & CARTON'S 'TRUE BLUE' SOFTBALL GAME

Speaking of setting the bar low, Christie -- a participant in last year's Bombers Boomer Broadway Softball Classic -- got on Carton for falling on his behind while missing a routine pop-up.

"That's very special, to have screwed up at shortstop two years in a row," he said.

Chris Christie Schmoozes With Steve Somers At True blue Game
WFAN morning radio hosts Boomer Esiason and Craig Carton hosted a charity softball game at Yankee Stadium to honor the memories of NYPD officers Brian Moore, Wenjian Liu and Rafael Ramos, who were recently lost in the line of duty. (Photo: Mark Mason, CBS Local)
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