Steve Webb
WASHINGTON, D.C. — On a rainy spring afternoon, the 2024 World Series Champion Los Angeles Dodgers were honored in a festive and heartfelt ceremony at the White House on Monday. Welcomed by President Donald Trump and a crowd of supporters and dignitaries, the Dodgers were recognized for their championship season, their historic performances, and their contributions on and off the field.
The ceremony opened with the President arriving alongside Dodgers owner and chairman Mark Walter. With a light-hearted tone and a nod to the team’s good looks and talent, the President congratulated the Dodgers for what he called a “legendary season,” remarking that he had closely followed their improbable run to the title. “You did a big number,” he said. “It’s amazing how it all came out.”
A Season for the Ages
The 2024 Dodgers overcame a season filled with injuries and adversity to capture the franchise’s second title since 2020 and its eighth overall. They used a record 40 pitchers—more than any previous championship team—after being beset by injuries to their starting rotation. Despite the setbacks, the team pulled together with resilience and unity, led by manager Dave Roberts, who received praise for his steady leadership.
One of the highlights of the ceremony came when the President recognized the unprecedented performance of Shohei Ohtani, the unanimous National League MVP. In a feat never seen before in the 149-year history of Major League Baseball, Ohtani not only joined the elite 40-40 club (40 home runs and 40 stolen bases) but shattered expectations by becoming the first-ever member of the 50-50 club, finishing the season with 54 home runs and 59 stolen bases.
The President recounted Ohtani’s signature performance on September 19th, when he went six-for-six against the Marlins with three home runs, 10 RBIs, and two stolen bases. “Other than that,” he joked, “it was not a great game.”
President Trump praised the Dodgers’ commitment to fundamentals, team spirit, and resilience. “You showed America that it’s not about individual glory,” he said. “It’s about the team, digging deep, and sprinting through first base.”
Off the Field Impact
Dodgers chairman Mark Walter and ace pitcher Clayton Kershaw both delivered brief remarks. Walter highlighted the team’s growth not just in fanbase and global reach but also in its community work, including charitable contributions and support from player foundations.
Kershaw, speaking on behalf of the team, reflected on what made the 2024 Dodgers special. “The selflessness and humility that each one of these players and staff have shown over the last year is truly an inspiration,” he said. “They’ve constantly played hurt, switched positions, and taken the ball to put the team first.”
He added, “I hope the 2024 Dodgers can serve as an inspiration to many—not just in sports, but in life.”
A Presidential Sendoff
To cap off the ceremony, the Dodgers presented the President with a customized jersey. The President responded by inviting the team for a quick visit to the Oval Office, saying, “We’re going to run them down really fast… and there’s nothing like it.”
He closed with a prediction: “You’re off to a great start. I hope to see you back here next year. ”
As the players and staff looked on, the spirit of the moment—pride, gratitude, and celebration—was palpable. The 2024 Dodgers were not only champions on the field, but examples of perseverance, unity, and excellence.
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