President Donald Trump welcomed the 2024 World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers to the White House on Monday, praising the club for its resilience and giving team members a tour of "the fabled Oval Office."
In recounting the highlights of last season's title run, Trump made a point to shake hands with each of the players he mentioned -- starting with manager Dave Roberts and continuing with Shohei Ohtani, Clayton Kershaw, Mookie Betts and many others in succession.
The Dodgers took advantage an off day in Washington before starting a three-game series against the Nationals to meet with the president and take part in the ceremony.
World Series MVP Freddie Freeman did not attend after going on the injured list last Thursday because of an ankle injury.
Kershaw, who was inactive for the playoff run due to an injured foot, spoke on behalf of the team, saying he hoped the "selflessness and humility" the team showed in winning its second World Series title since 2020 "can serve as an inspiration for others as it was for me."
Kershaw presented the president with a "Trump 47" Dodgers jersey at the conclusion of the ceremony.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Dodgers visit White House to celebrate 2024 World Series title
