President Donald Trump honored the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers at the White House on July 23, 2026, calling the team one of the great brands anywhere in the world
during a Rose Garden event celebrating their second title in as many years.
Trump’s July 23, 2026, ceremony marked the Dodgers’ second White House visit in two years, following their 2024 World Series victory. The team, led by Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman, was recognized for back-to-back titles, a feat last achieved by the 1998-2000 New York Yankees. Trump praised the franchise’s winning culture and compared Ohtani to Babe Ruth, calling him arguably the best hitter and pitcher in baseball.
Trump’s Praise and the Dodgers’ Ambitions
During the Rose Garden event, Trump highlighted the Dodgers’ 2025 World Series victory over the Toronto Blue Jays, calling it a hell of a series.
He expressed surprise that the team had never won consecutive titles before, then mused about a potential third in a row. I’m thrilled to say welcome back to the White House,
he said, adding, And maybe I’ll see you again next year.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts emphasized the team’s focus on winning, stating, We’re proud of that [2025] team and what it has achieved, and we hope to be back here again next year.
The team’s bid for a third straight title would make them the first since the 1998-2000 Yankees. Trump referenced the late Yankees owner George Steinbrenner, saying, He would do anything to win,
before telling Dodgers owners, But you’re doing the same thing. It’s amazing.
Player Attendance and Team Dynamics
While stars like Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman attended, some key players skipped the event. Right fielder Mookie Betts, who participated in the 2025 visit, chose to spend his scheduled day off with family. Kike Hernández cited a conflicting injury rehab assignment, though he stated he would not have participated if he was available to join. Pitcher Edgardo Henriquez also reportedly did not attend.
Despite the absences, the ceremony featured symbolic gestures. The Dodgers presented Trump with what looked like a replica of a World Series ring and a Trump 47 jersey, which he pocketed with a remark: Wow. Do I have to report this? I don’t want to report this.
The team also gave him a custom jersey, while manager Dave Roberts noted the winning culture
that has defined their success.
Historical Context and Political Tensions
The Dodgers’ White House visits follow a tradition dating to 1869, when President Ulysses S. Grant hosted the Cincinnati Red Stockings. However, Trump’s tenure has seen controversy over such events. In 2018, he rescinded an invitation to the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles after players suggested skipping the trip. The Dodgers’ 2026 visit occurred amid tensions over Trump’s policies, including ICE raids in Los Angeles, which some fans linked to the team’s decision to attend.
The White House’s Evolving Space
Since the Dodgers’ last White House visit in 2025, Trump has renovated the Rose Garden, adding a patio area reminiscent of his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida. The 2026 ceremony took place in the updated space, with attendees wearing blue Dodgers caps to shield from the sun. The event also featured a jazzy version of Randy Newman’s “I Love LA,” underscoring the team’s Southern California roots.
The Dodgers’ 2025 championship run included historic moments, such as Clayton Kershaw getting out of a bases-loaded jam in the 12th inning of Game 3 of the World Series. Though retired, Kershaw attended the ceremony, where Trump quipped, You could pitch right now if they needed you, right?
Kershaw replied in the negative, prompting Trump to add, And he’s smart.
What Comes Next for the Dodgers?
Worth a look
