The Los Angeles Dodgers, fresh off their 2025 World Series victory, were honored at the White House on Thursday, marking their second celebratory visit in as many years. President Donald Trump welcomed the team in a Rose Garden ceremony, where they gifted him with a custom jersey and a replica of their championship ring. Trump commended the Dodgers for their outstanding season, expressing optimism about their potential to secure another championship in the future.
Notable team members such as Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and manager Dave Roberts attended the event. However, the absence of stars like Mookie Betts and Kiké Hernández was notable. During his speech, President Trump acknowledged various players’ achievements and recounted stories of baseball icons like Babe Ruth and the late Yankees owner George Steinbrenner. He commended Clayton Kershaw, although he mistakenly referred to him as an active player despite Kershaw’s recent retirement after the last World Series.
As he accepted the championship ring, President Trump humorously questioned whether he needed to report the gift, casually slipping it into his jacket pocket. Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the visit sparked mixed reactions among Dodgers fans, largely due to the Trump administration’s immigration policies and recent enforcement operations in Los Angeles that have led to protests.
Mookie Betts, opting out of the event, chose to spend time with his family. Kiké Hernández, who has been vocal against immigration raids in Los Angeles, cited a rehabilitation commitment as his reason for not attending, adding that he would have declined regardless. Manager Dave Roberts defended the team’s presence at the White House, emphasizing that the visit was about celebrating a cherished sports tradition rather than making a political statement.
Championship team visits to the White House have long been a staple of American tradition, though individual player participation has varied based on personal and political views. This recent visit exemplifies the ongoing intersection of sports and politics, highlighting the differing perspectives among players and fans alike.