Dodgers Honored at White House for 2025 World Series Win

President Donald Trump hosted the Los Angeles Dodgers at the White House on Thursday to recognize the team's 2025 World Series championship.

The ceremony took place in the Rose Garden, where team owner Mark Walter presented Trump with a personalized jersey and a replica World Series ring.

Event Details

The Dodgers' visit commemorated their 2025 World Series title, which they secured in a seven-game series against the Toronto Blue Jays.

Trump noted during the ceremony that the Dodgers won consecutive titles for the first time. Manager Dave Roberts stated that the team is "going for a three-peat."

The outdoor ceremony featured remarks from Trump lasting approximately 20 minutes, during which he recapped the Dodgers' 2025 season. Trump also referenced the previous year's celebration for the 2024 championship.

Player Attendance

Most members of the Dodgers roster attended the ceremony, including Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Max Muncy. Postseason contributors Will Klein and Miguel Rojas were also present.

Outfielder Mookie Betts did not attend, citing family commitments. Other absences included Will Smith, Kiké Hernández, Tyler Glasnow, Blake Treinen, and Blake Snell, who are on the injured list. Hernández stated he likely would not have attended if healthy.

The event occurred during the Dodgers' off-day on a nine-game road trip. The visit was rescheduled from April due to scheduling conflicts.

Remarks and Interaction

During the ceremony, Trump joked with players, asking Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Shohei Ohtani, "Who's the better pitcher?" He also made a reference to the Babe Ruth trade while discussing Ohtani's two-way abilities and praised Ohtani as a top fielder. (Ohtani has not played outfield since his career in Japan.)

Trump described the Dodgers as "one of the great brands anywhere in the world" and noted the team's consecutive titles for the first time. He indicated he has been "busy with Iran and some other things" as a reason for not following baseball closely.

Upon receiving the championship ring, Trump stated, "Wow. Do I have to report this?" and placed it in his suit pocket.

Other Attendees

Cabinet members Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Markwayne Mullin, and Brooke Rollins attended the ceremony and were described as Dodgers fans.

Background

The tradition of championship sports teams visiting the White House dates back to 1869. The Dodgers' visit marks the second consecutive year the team has been honored at the White House for a World Series title.

Trump's administration has previously faced controversy over sports team invitations, notably rescinding an invitation to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2018.