Dodgers celebrate 2024 World Series win at the White House

LOS ANGELES - In keeping with a long-standing tradition, the Los Angeles Dodgers visited President Donald Trump in the White House Monday to celebrate their World Series win. 

What we know:

All Dodger players except Freddie Freeman, who is recovering from an ankle sprain, participated, as did manager Dave Roberts and coaches. 

Shortstop Mookie Betts, who previously declined a White House visit with the Boston Red Sox, joined the team, emphasizing his decision is about supporting the Dodgers' achievements.

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Betts expressed regret over missing the Red Sox's visit in 2018, feeling his absence detracted from the team's success.

First baseman Freddie Freeman was absent due to a right ankle sprain, which placed him on the 10-day injured list. The Dodgers' visit coincides with their three-game series against the Washington Nationals starting Monday.

What was said during the ceremony 

What they're saying:

During Monday's ceremony, Trump recognized some Dodgers in particular, including Betts, Shohei Ohtani and Clayton Kershaw. Trump congratulated Ohtani for winning the National League MVP award and becoming the first player to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in the same season.

"He looks like a movie star," Trump said. "An accomplishment unparalleled."

Trump asked if Ohtani was that good, and Roberts responded, "He's only getting better."

Trump called Roberts "one of the greatest managers ever to wear the Dodger blue."

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The president called Kershaw the "heart and soul" of the pitching staff.

"Unbelievable," Trump said. "I'm glad to meet him."

Reflecting on the team's championship season, Trump went down the line shaking hands with each player he called out, beginning with Roberts, then Ohtani, Kershaw, Betts and several others.

Kershaw, sidelined during the playoffs with a foot injury, spoke on behalf of the team.

"This organization exemplifies what it means to come together as one for a greater purpose than themselves," Kershaw said. "The selflessness and humility that each one of these players and staff have shown over the last year is truly an inspiration."

Kershaw then presented Trump with a No. 47 Dodgers jersey as a gift, and the two posed for photos holding it together.

Trump also said he hopes the team gets another championship invite to the White House next year.

"I hope you're going to be back here next year. I don't want to give you too much because we want to have a little suspense next year," Trump said.

The backstory:

The Dodgers last visited the White House as World Series champions on July 2, 2021, during President Joe Biden's term.