WATCH: Trump Makes LA Dodgers Crack Up With Shot At Adam Schiff, Hilarious One-Liner
President Donald Trump hosted the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers at the White House on Monday, turning the traditional celebration into a memorable moment filled with humor, unscripted remarks, and a pointed jab that got a big reaction from the team.
The Dodgers, fresh off their dominant World Series win over the New York Yankees last October, arrived in the East Room to honor their championship season. But it was Trump’s off-the-cuff remarks that stole the show.
As the President began his address, he took a moment to recognize some of the individuals in the room—or rather, to deliberately not recognize them.
“We have a couple of senators here—I just don’t particularly like them, so I won’t introduce,” Trump said, sparking audible laughter from the Dodgers players, coaches, and staff.
The subtle jab was likely intended for Senators Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Alex Padilla (D-CA), though they were not acknowledged by name. However, the implication wasn’t lost on anyone.
WATCH:
He then turned his attention to Shohei Ohtani, praising the two-way superstar for a jaw-dropping statistical season that redefined greatness.
“All of baseball history, only six players have ever hit 40 home runs and stolen 40 bases in a single season. An elite group known as the 40/40 Club,” Trump said. “But unanimous National League MVP Shohei Ohtani—come here, come here, come here, come here, come here.”
After Ohtani approached to shake hands, Trump said, “He looks like a movie star. He’s got a good future, I’m telling you.”
Even Ohtani, known for his quiet demeanor, cracked a smile.
WATCH:
The White House event was a continuation of the traditional champion visits that have taken place for decades, but under Trump’s leadership, they’ve taken on a more colorful, unscripted tone.
Trump went on to congratulate Freddie Freeman for his historic World Series performance. Freeman tied a World Series record with 12 RBIs and hit home runs in the first four games, including the first walk-off grand slam in Fall Classic history.
President Trump also praised Mookie Betts — the star outfielder who made headlines in 2019 for turning down a visit to Trump’s White House as part of the 2018 World Series-winning Red Sox — calling him an “unbelievable” baseball player. Betts confirmed Friday that he plans to attend, though he admitted the choice wasn’t simple.
“Being black in America in a situation like this, it’s a tough spot to be in,” Betts said. “No matter what I choose, somebody is going to be pissed. This is not about me. This is not about politics. This is about the Dodgers and my loyalty to these boys in the clubhouse.”
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts kept it focused on baseball when asked about the team’s upcoming White House visit. “I’m not going to sit up here and make it political,” Roberts said after Wednesday night’s game at Dodger Stadium. “I’m excited to recognize the 2024 World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers.”
The Dodgers became the second championship team to visit the White House since Donald Trump returned to office, following the Florida Panthers of the NHL.