Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 13
Mookie Betts Skips July 23 Dodgers White House Visit, Citing Time With New Baby
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 13

Mookie Betts Skips July 23 Dodgers White House Visit, Citing Time With New Baby

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 13

Summary

  • Mookie Betts said he will not join the Dodgers' July 23 White House visit, saying the off-day is one of few chances to spend time with his new baby and family.
  • The 33-year-old said the choice is not political and expects criticism either way, adding that he visited the White House after the Dodgers' 2024 World Series title.
  • Kiké Hernández also said he likely would not attend, though he is scheduled for a rehab assignment when the team is on the East Coast.
  • The visit comes as the Dodgers chase a third straight World Series title, with manager Dave Roberts framing the invitation as a reward for winning a championship.

Insights

When star athletes decline White House invitations, what message does it send to fans, teammates, and the league?
Is the tradition of White House championship visits becoming more divisive than celebratory for modern sports teams?