The Los Angeles Dodgers have been in the spotlight this week, with many fans unhappy with the team’s decision to visit Donald Trump at the White House — but one player won’t be attending.
It has been clear from the fan discourse this week that the decision from the Dodgers to mark their 2025 World Series win with a trip to Washington DC isn’t a popular one. The political tension we are seeing in the US at the moment does not stop at the borders of the sporting world.
Utility man Kike Hernandez has shared that he won’t be attending, and while that might be a forced decision, he has made his stance on meeting with the president crystal clear.
Kike Hernandez won’t join the Dodgers on visit to White House
Hernandez, a 34-year-old MLB veteran, has been out of action in recent weeks. His rehabilitation program prevents him from traveling with the team to Washington DC on July 23rd.
But even if he wasn’t predisposed, it sounds like he has no interest in honoring this administration with his presence.
Dodgers reporter Bill Plunkett wrote on X: “Kike Hernandez said he will not be going to the White House when #Dodgers visit July 23 — because he will be on rehab assignment in minors.
“Would he go if he were on the active roster? “Probably not.””
The Puerto Rico native is the first Dodger to express this sentiment, which is shared by a large cohort of their fanbase in California.
Conversely, teammate Clayton Kershaw said it’s an “incredible honor” to be invited.
He referenced the tradition that has been in place for so long — a justification that has brought mixed responses. There has been no indication that the Dodgers are reluctant about the visit.
Hernandez’s claim is the first sign of discontent, but it comes from a player who wasn’t able to go in the first place.
READ MORE:
Clayton Kershaw justifies LA Dodgers White House visit with Donald Trump, ‘incredible honor’
Bryce Harper requests use of illegal MLB bats for bonus round of Home Run Derby
LA Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani out of MLB All-Star Game as injury diagnosis confirmed
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
