Trump Hosts Dodgers at White House Amid Renovations and Player Backlash
Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts said he regretted attending the White House ceremony with President Donald Trump after criticism weighed on him, Forbes reported. President Trump then welcomed the Los Angeles Dodgers and two-time World Series champion Shohei Ohtani at the White House, marking the team's second straight championship, AP noted. ABC7 said Trump praised the Dodgers as a major global brand and highlighted their recent success. The ceremony took place in the Rose Garden, where Trump highlighted recent renovations and a newly built helipad, Defector reported.
The Los Angeles Times observed that most of the Dodgers roster attended the event amid mixed reactions from fans. ABC News added that Trump honored the back-to-back titles, mentioning players such as Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman. Overall, the visit combined celebration of the championship with a showcase of White House improvements.