The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced their upcoming visit to the White House on April 7, extending the tradition of World Series champions celebrating their victory with the President, in this case, Donald Trump. Following this, members of the team will also visit Capitol Hill on April 8.
However, the decision to attend has sparked renewed discussion, particularly regarding Mookie Betts. The Dodgers’ superstar shortstop, who notably declined a White House invitation in 2019 during Trump’s first term in office, has stated he remains undecided about attending the upcoming visit.
Mookie Betts Undecided About Los Angeles Dodgers World Series White House Visit
“I will talk it over with my family before making a decision,” Betts told Jack Harris of the LA Times, indicating a thoughtful approach to his choice.
In 2019, Betts was among ten Boston Red Sox players, including manager Alex Cora, who opted not to visit the White House. At the time, Betts simply stated to the Boston Globe, “I won’t be going there. I decided not to.”
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, who had previously hinted at potentially declining a White House invitation in 2019 if the Dodgers won the World Series, has since changed his stance. “We have to win it first,” Roberts had said then.
“But one trip to D.C., playing the Nationals, is plenty for me.” Now, however, he has confirmed his intention to attend. “It’s certainly a huge honor to get the invitation to the White House. It allows us to celebrate our 2024 championship. To my understanding, every World Series champion gets that honor,” Roberts stated on Tuesday. “I respect the position. It’s the highest office in our country certainly, in the world. So I’m looking forward to it.”
The Dodgers, in their official announcement via X, emphasized the tradition of World Series champions visiting the White House. “In keeping with long-standing baseball tradition, President Trump has invited the 2024 World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers to the White House when they play in Washington D.C. on April 7,” they wrote.
“The Dodgers look forward to visiting the White House and celebrating our title. In addition, members of the Dodgers will visit Capitol Hill on April 8.”