It seems that for many liberal sports writers, a winning team’s visit to President Trump’s White House is the worst possible scenario. On Thursday, veteran LA Times journalist Bill Plaschke criticized the Los Angeles Dodgers, calling their acceptance of an invitation to the White House to celebrate their World Series win “tone-deaf” and an “insult to their fans.” Right from the start, Plaschke suggests that this move disrespects the Dodgers’ predominantly Hispanic fan base.
He questions, “…Why on earth would they embrace someone who would try to tear this city apart?” Plaschke lays the blame for various issues in Los Angeles at Trump’s feet, not acknowledging that perhaps his views are somewhat disconnected from reality.
Officials confirmed that the Dodgers plan to visit the White House again, stirring further controversy. Plaschke noted that multiple teams from different leagues are opting not to celebrate their championships in the White House while Trump remains in office. The Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia Eagles, and Oklahoma City Thunder have all refused invites. So, why would the Dodgers go twice?
As many expected, Plaschke reached the conclusion that the Dodgers’ visit was an “insult to the fans,” arguing that Trump’s administration’s aggressive deportation policies affect many Dodgers supporters. “But events that occurred two months after that first trip have changed even that flimsy logic.” In response to the Dodgers’ management, he insisted the trip signifies respect for the country, not an endorsement of the president.
He pointed out that many people in Los Angeles were impacted by deportations during Trump’s presidency, highlighting that these individuals are loyal fans. Plaschke further expressed disappointment at the Dodgers for not condemning Trump’s policies, comparing them unfavorably to other professional teams in the city.
His critique continues, framing the players and organization as pawns in a larger political game, arguing that their visit serves as a “cheap Trump photo op.” This raises the question—who really seems to be the political pawn? Interestingly, he had nothing to say about NBA coach Steve Kerr and player Stephen Curry endorsing Kamala Harris at a major political event.
Then, Plaschke made a rather absurd comparison involving Dodgers icon Jackie Robinson, implying that sharing a stage with Trump contradicts the values Robinson represented. It’s as if he’s suggesting that accepting such an invitation somehow endorses racism, which seems utterly baseless.
Deporting illegal immigrants is viewed by some as a sound policy, not racial discrimination. After all, even Barack Obama enforced stricter immigration policies during his tenure. Plaschke’s argument that attending the White House normalizes Trump’s morality seemed to stretch reality, especially given the diverse nature of the Dodgers’ fan base, which includes many who might support such policies.
He concluded his lengthy critique by encouraging the Dodgers to reconsider their White House visit out of “human decency.” It was a dramatic finish, referring to the players as “losers” if they proceeded with the visit, emphasizing that Trump has treated Dodgers fans poorly.
In two weeks, the team could threaten to visit the nation’s most famous residence as two-time champions, but they might leave feeling like losers, according to Plaschke. It’s a rather colorful perspective on a situation that’s become oh-so-political.
One might wonder if perhaps Plaschke himself is the one who is tone-deaf. His profession seems filled with individuals who think avoiding the White House is an act of bravery, when it might actually be the opposite. The Dodgers are within their rights to view this visit not as an endorsement of the president, but as a celebration of their achievements.
Encouraging teams and players to decline invitations reflects more on those making the demands than on President Trump. Maybe it’s time to consider a broader view of what these visits represent.
