The Dodgers’ White House Visit Sparks Mixed Reactions Among Players and Fans
As the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare for a visit to the White House to celebrate their World Series victory, the decision has sparked a range of emotions among players and fans alike. The visit, scheduled for Monday, comes amid political tensions and differing personal views.
Star shortstop Mookie Betts, who previously declined an invitation to the White House in 2019 during President Trump’s term, has decided to attend this time. He expressed the complexity of the decision, stating, “Being Black in America in a situation like this, it’s a tough spot to be in.”
Betts, who experienced regret over his past decision, emphasized the importance of his loyalty to the Dodgers and his teammates, rather than politics. “No matter what I choose, somebody is going to be pissed. This is not about me. This is not about politics. This is about the Dodgers and my loyalty to these boys in the clubhouse,” he said.
The team’s visit has stirred controversy among fans, some of whom are critical of the Trump administration. L.A. Times sports columnist Dylan Hernández argued that such a trip contradicts the Dodgers’ legacy of social change. “The Dodgers try to go out of their way to remind you that they are more than just a baseball team, that they are part of American history, that they are an agent of social change,” Hernández noted.
Jackie Robinson, who famously broke baseball’s color barrier with the Dodgers, remains a significant symbol for the team. Recently, the Department of Defense temporarily removed a web page commemorating Robinson’s military service, amidst efforts to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion references from military policies.
Fan Melissa Morales voiced her opposition to the visit, citing Trump’s immigration policies. “I don’t think they should go,” she said while wearing her Dodger jacket, “especially since a lot of the fans are Latino.”
The Dodgers previously celebrated their 2020 World Series win at the White House with former President Joe Biden. Pitcher Blake Treinen, however, opted out of attending that event. This year, as a Trump supporter, Treinen is eager for the visit, describing Trump as “the greatest president of my lifetime.”
While some players may choose not to participate, Treinen respects their decisions. “They can choose what they want to do. For me, I’m excited to go,” he said.
For fan Patrick Tee, the visit is a tradition. “Everybody goes when they win,” he remarked. “Why wouldn’t they go?”
Manager Dave Roberts avoided making political statements when addressing the media. “I’m not going to sit up here and make it political,” he said. “I’m excited to recognize the 2024 World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers.”
The Dodgers recently secured a win against the Atlanta Braves with a thrilling walk-off home run by Shohei Ohtani. However, they faced their first defeat against the Philadelphia Phillies. Following the White House visit, the team will open their season against the Washington Nationals.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
