Mookie Betts makes decision on Trump visit for World Series celebration

Los Angeles Dodgers star outfielder Mookie Betts is set to commemorate his second World Series victory this weekend with President Donald Trump, marking his first time celebrating a championship at the White House. Betts previously clinched a title with the Boston Red Sox in 2018, the same year he was named the American League MVP. However, he chose to skip the team’s White House celebration in 2019.

Betts expressed regret over missing the opportunity to meet with President Trump in 2019, alongside former Red Sox manager Alex Cora and pitcher David Price, citing concerns about being a distraction. This time around, Betts emphasized that his decision to attend the White House event is not about politics but rather a show of loyalty to his Dodgers teammates.

In a recent statement to the L.A. Times, Betts stated, “This is not about me; I don’t want anything to be about me. This is about the Dodgers. Because these boys were there for me.” He acknowledged the challenges that come with being a Black athlete in America and the inevitable backlash that accompanies such high-profile decisions.

The Dodgers emerged victorious in the 2024 World Series, defeating the New York Yankees in five games, which adds an extra layer of significance to Betts’ upcoming White House visit. Despite the potential for controversy, Betts remains focused on celebrating the Dodgers’ achievements and showcasing his support for his teammates.

Betts’ decision to attend the White House event aligns with other recent championship teams, such as the Philadelphia Eagles and the Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers, who have also visited the presidential residence. As Betts prepares to join his Dodgers teammates for the commemorative event, his priority remains honoring their collective success on the baseball field.

In conclusion, Mookie Betts’ upcoming visit to the White House represents a significant milestone in his baseball career and underscores his commitment to celebrating team accomplishments. Despite the complexities surrounding high-profile visits to the presidential residence, Betts remains steadfast in his support for the Dodgers and his fellow teammates.