Introduction to the Dodgers’ White House Visit
The World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers will visit the White House Monday in a baseball tradition during the team’s East Coast road trip.
After dropping two of three games in Philadelphia over the weekend, the Dodgers’ White House visit will coincide with a three-game series against the Washington Nationals. The team will be part of an East Room ceremony in honor of the 2024 World Series victory.
Ceremony Details
The ceremony is set for 8 a.m. California time. Watch Live: Coverage will be provided above at 8 a.m. The 9-2 Dodgers confirmed in a social media post last month that "in keeping with long-standing baseball tradition," President Trump invited them to the White House and team accepted.
History of the Dodgers’ White House Visits
The Dodgers last visited the White House as World Series in July 2021 when Joe Biden was president. Manager Dave Roberts called the visit an honor that each World Series champion gets to experience. Roberts said the decision to go to the White House was not a formal conversation involving players and coaches. The team is expected to present President Trump with a team jersey.
The White House Tradition
The White House tradition dates back decades with a visit by the 1925 Washington Senators during the administration of President Calvin Coolidge, according to the nonprofit White House Historical Association. Coolidge and first lady Grace were passionate baseball fans. Roberts said Friday he expected 100% participation at the ceremony and that it was "good we have full representation."
Player Participation
Shortstop Mookie Betts told reporters Friday he would join the team on the visit. Betts declined to join the Boston Red Sox on their visit in 2018 during President Trump’s first term. "I’m happy he’s going," Roberts said. "I’m happy we’re all going to go together just to celebrate our 2024 championship." Betts told reporters in Philadelphia that his choice to go was not political, but rather because of his desire to be there for the team.
Recent White House Visits
The NHL’s reigning Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers became the first team to visit Trump in his second term when they were honored during a ceremony in the East Room in early February. The White House also said recently the NFL’s Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles accepted their invitation for April 28. "It’s a baseball thing for us," Roberts said. "It’s tradition and we’re doing it unified. So I’m excited about it."
Conclusion
The Dodgers’ visit to the White House is a celebration of their 2024 World Series victory and a continuation of a long-standing baseball tradition. The team’s decision to participate in the ceremony was not taken lightly, and players like Mookie Betts have spoken about the importance of putting aside personal differences to honor the team’s achievement.
FAQs
Q: When is the Dodgers’ White House visit?
A: The visit is scheduled for Monday at 8 a.m. California time.
Q: Who invited the Dodgers to the White House?
A: President Trump invited the team to the White House, following a long-standing baseball tradition.
Q: Will all players participate in the ceremony?
A: Manager Dave Roberts expects 100% participation, and shortstop Mookie Betts has confirmed that he will join the team on the visit.
Q: What is the significance of the White House tradition?
A: The tradition dates back to 1925, when the Washington Senators visited President Calvin Coolidge, and is a way to honor the achievements of championship teams.
