WASHINGTON — The Los Angeles Dodgers visited the White House to celebrate their 2025 World Series victory, following an invitation from President Trump.
President Trump lauded the team during his speech, calling them “special winners” and “unbelievable champions.” He expressed hope to see them again in the future.
Dodgers chairman Mark Walter presented Trump with a personalized World Series ring and jersey. Walter highlighted the significance of winning back-to-back championships, attributing the achievement to the organization’s talent and determination. He expressed pride in the team and hope for another visit in the following year.
The ceremony occurred in the Rose Garden. Manager Dave Roberts spoke on behalf of the team, praising their historic accomplishment and expressing their commitment to a “three-peat.” He emphasized the team’s dedication to maintaining high standards.
“We did something that hasn’t been done in over 30 years, going back-to-back World Series champions, and we are going for a three-peat,” Roberts said.
During the event, Trump anticipated Miguel Rojas’ potential home run in Game 7 of the World Series, expressing confidence in his performance.
This marked the Dodgers’ second consecutive visit to the White House. The team faced scheduling challenges as they traveled between games against the Phillies and Mets, ultimately choosing to use their day off for the visit.
The decision to visit with Trump stirred debate among fans, given his controversial immigration policies. Roberts attempted to minimize political implications of the visit.
Several players, including Mookie Betts and Kiké Hernández, were absent. Betts chose family time over the visit, while Hernández had scheduling conflicts, emphasizing non-political reasons for their absence.
Pitcher Edgardo Henriquez also did not attend, with reasons undisclosed.
The Dodgers donated over $1 million to support local organizations assisting those affected by ICE raids, aligning their actions with community support.
Roberts expressed his desire for future White House invitations, viewing them as a symbol of achieving championship success.
“That’s the goal: to win a championship, to get this invitation to the White House,” Roberts said.
Meanwhile, reports emerged of federal investigations into Guggenheim Partners regarding financial improprieties. No charges have been filed, and Walter’s companies are cooperating with authorities.