Dodgers Celebrate 2025 World Series Victory at the White House

The Los Angeles Dodgers visited the White House on Thursday to celebrate their 2025 World Series championship, following an invitation from President Trump. During the event, Trump praised the team as “special winners” and champions. He also expressed admiration for the players, though he appeared to mix up some of their roles on the field.

Dodgers chairman Mark Walter presented Trump with a personalized World Series ring and jersey. Walter remarked on the team’s back-to-back championship victories, highlighting the talent, determination, and character within the organization. He expressed pride in the team and hopes for future visits to the White House.

The ceremony took place in the Rose Garden, where manager Dave Roberts delivered a speech on behalf of the team. Roberts noted the significance of winning consecutive World Series championships, a feat not achieved in over 30 years. He expressed an ambition for a three-peat and hopes the team’s performance brings pride to fans.

During the ceremony, Trump anticipated Miguel Rojas hitting a home run in the World Series Game 7, describing him as “a winner” before shaking Rojas’ hand. The event marked the team’s second White House visit in consecutive years, with logistical challenges surrounding the scheduling. The Dodgers opted to use their only off day during an East Coast trip to visit Washington, fitting the visit between games against the Phillies and Mets.

Dodgers fans have debated the team’s visit due to Trump’s immigration policies, which some argue have negatively impacted the team’s supporters. Roberts has consistently aimed to diffuse any political connotations associated with the visit. Mookie Betts and Kiké Hernández did not attend the visit, with Betts choosing family time and Hernández mentioning a rehab assignment conflict. Hernández has previously voiced support for fans affected by ICE raids in Los Angeles, while Betts preferred his absence not be seen as political.

Pitcher Edgardo Henriquez was also absent, though reasons for his non-attendance have not been disclosed. The Dodgers showed community support by donating over $1 million to local organizations aiding those affected by ICE raids. Roberts stated his hope for annual White House invitations, aligning this goal with the team’s championship aspirations. He emphasized his focus on baseball and the tradition of visiting the White House as part of championship celebrations.

The visit followed Bloomberg’s report on federal investigations into financial improprieties involving insurance companies linked to Walter, including Guggenheim Partners, where Walter serves as CEO. No charges have been filed. Representatives from the Walter business empire, including his sporting investments, have affirmed cooperation with the investigation.