The Los Angeles Dodgers visited the White House to commemorate their World Series victory. Kiké Hernández was among the players to receive a shoutout from President Donald Trump.
However, Hernández did not seem to put much weight on his shoutout from the President. Trump mentioned Hernández by name while addressing the media and went over to shake his hand. On his way back to the podium, he said, “hell of a grip,” referring to Hernández’s handshake.
During an interview with Spanish-language media outlet, Cultura Sports, Hernández revealed he had no interest in speaking to Trump. He was asked if he was allowed to speak to the president. He said he did not speak to the president and did not care to do so.
There has been some political controversy between teams and the traditional White House visit while Trump has been in office. Teams have refused to attend under his administration, and some athletes in the past have been outspoken against attending while Trump is in office.
Mookie Betts, who attended this year, did not attend when the Boston Red Sox visited the White House in 2019.
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Hernández told Cultura Sports he was there to celebrate with his teammates and be recognized as a champion. He had no interest in speaking or engaging with the president. Hernández also noted that he did not want to answer questions all season had he chosen not to attend.
Hernández was a huge part of the Dodgers’ World Series run. In the postseason, he went 15-for-51 with two home runs and six RBIs. He played four different positions as well, showcasing his versatility. It was his second World Series victory with the Dodgers.
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