Dodgers Face Criticism Over White House Visit
Bill Plaschke of the Los Angeles Times has criticized the Dodgers for scheduling a visit to the White House to celebrate their 2025 World Series win.
In a detailed op-ed released on Thursday, he condemned the Dodgers, who have secured back-to-back championships and seem to be on their way to a third. Plaschke suggested that Trump is creating division in Los Angeles by focusing heavily on his immigration enforcement policies.
Some, including team officials, maintain that this visit centers around tradition rather than politics. Presidential visits to sports teams date back to President Andrew Johnson, who hosted amateur baseball clubs in 1865. The Dodgers expressed that they are simply participating in a time-honored practice, honoring the presidency rather than necessarily the broader population.
That said, events that unfolded shortly after that initial visit complicate this reasoning. The current occupant of the office has instilled fear in Los Angeles. Recent incidents have profoundly affected countless lives.
Many of those impacted include Dodgers fans, often seen wearing team merchandise as they were affected by recent enforcement actions.
Plaschke also pointed out the team’s “reluctant” $1.1 million donation to community organizations aimed at supporting families impacted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement activities. He highlighted the experience of longtime fan Jose Madera, the director of the Pasadena Community Job Center, who has chosen not to attend games anymore.
“I am deeply disappointed to hear that our team is going to shake the hand of someone who has brought so much hate and fear to our community,” Madera stated. “Thousands of families are living in fear…We cannot accept what is happening.”
Madera urged the Dodgers to reflect on their identity.
“The Dodgers bring so much joy to our community, but a large portion of their fan base is comprised of immigrants, and they need to stand with us,” he remarked. “It’s unfortunate they have not done so, and we need to hold them accountable.”
While some online users sided with Plaschke’s perspective, others defended the Dodgers, suggesting they aim to be a unifying figure in a time of division.
