Jill Biden is rooting for the Phillies in the World Series. She's part of a long history of first ladies who loved America's national pastime.

As the Democrats battle fiercely to keep control of the House and the Senate, first lady Jill Biden is sought after on the campaign trail. But on Friday night, there's a good chance she'll be watching Game 1 of the World Series as her beloved Phillies play the Houston Astros.

"The First Lady will be closely following the World Series and cheering on her home team, the Phillies," her office told CBS News.

There is a time-honored tradition among first ladies to throw out ceremonial first pitches, starting with Pat Nixon throwing out the first pitch in 1971, according to Colleen Shogan, senior vice president and director of the David M. Rubenstein Center at the White House Historical Association. Nancy Reagan also threw out a first pitch at Game 1 of the 1988 World Series, and just over six months later, Barbara Bush threw out the first pitch for the Texas Rangers.