The Los Angeles Dodgers are preparing for a significant visit to the White House on Monday to celebrate their remarkable World Series championship victory. However, for some players, particularly shortstop Mookie Betts, the decision to attend has been met with internal conflict and scrutiny.

In a statement made on Friday, Betts expressed his deep-seated feelings about attending the White House, citing the complexities of being a Black athlete in America, particularly in a politically charged environment. “Being Black in America in a situation like this, it’s a tough spot to be in,” Betts admitted, highlighting the challenges that accompany such public appearances.

Betts previously chose to skip a visit during President Trump’s first term in 2019 while he was with the Boston Red Sox, a choice he now reflects on with some regret. He was part of a group of players who opted out of that trip, a decision that has continued to follow him. “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,” he added, emphasizing his commitment to his team over the surrounding political discourse.

The upcoming visit has sparked a wave of mixed reactions among fans and commentators alike, particularly from those who harbor strong feelings against the current administration. Los Angeles Times sports columnist Dylan Hernández voiced his concerns, arguing that the Dodgers’ visit to the White House would be contradictory to the values the franchise represents. He stated, “The Dodgers try to go out of their way to remind you that they are more than just a baseball team; they are part of American history, that they are an agent of social change.” Hernández pointed to the legacy of Jackie Robinson, the first Black player to break Major League Baseball’s color barrier with the Dodgers in 1947, as emblematic of the team’s historical significance.

Adding to the complexity, a recent controversy emerged when the Department of Defense temporarily removed a webpage honoring Robinson’s military service amid discussions aimed at diminishing references to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the military. This move has raised eyebrows and further intensified the discussions surrounding the Dodgers’ upcoming visit to the White House.

Fan Melissa Morales has voiced her discontent regarding the visit, particularly in light of Trump’s policies on immigration. Wearing her Dodgers jacket, she stated, “I don’t think they should go, especially since a lot of the fans are Latino.” Morales’ sentiment echoes a broader concern among some supporters who feel uneasy about the implications of the team’s visit.

In a stark contrast, there are players like pitcher Blake Treinen, a vocal supporter of Trump, who are eager about the upcoming celebration. Treinen expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m pumped. The greatest president of my lifetime. Excited to meet him, shake his hand, thank him for what he is doing.” Treinen made the choice to sit out the previous visit during Biden’s presidency but looks forward to this opportunity, stating, “For me, I’m excited to go.”

Dodgers fan Patrick Tee echoed a common sentiment among supporters, asserting that attending the White House is a tradition for championship teams. “Everybody goes when they win. Why wouldn’t they go?” he questioned, underscoring the expectation that such celebrations are a rite of passage for victorious teams.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has been cautious in navigating the political waters surrounding the visit, opting to focus on the accomplishment of the team rather than the associated controversies. After a recent game, he remarked, “I’m not going to sit up here and make it political. I’m excited to recognize the 2024 World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers.”

The Dodgers have had a strong performance this season, recently clinching a hard-fought victory against the Atlanta Braves with a dramatic walk-off home run from superstar Shohei Ohtani, bringing their record to a perfect 8-0. However, they faced their first loss against the Philadelphia Phillies shortly thereafter, a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sport.

Following their visit to the White House, the Dodgers will turn their attention to the season opener against the Washington Nationals, excited to continue their journey as a prominent force in Major League Baseball.