Dodgers legend Mookie Betts says athletes should not be considered politicians
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Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts just wants to be a baseball player, not a political figure or a political vehicle for people to push their agenda.
Betts, 33, visited the White House after the Dodgers won the World Series in 2024, but he won't be going this year. The four-time World Series champion said he recently had a baby and wanted to spend time with his family, stressing that the decision had nothing to do with politics.
The American League MVP winner questioned why athletes are considered political figures in this day and age.
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Mookie Betts of the Los Angeles Dodgers looks on in the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, Calif. (Photos by Kiyoshi Mio/Imagn)
“I don't know why the world looks at athletes as these political figures or these people who can make a change or these people who can do this, that, and so on. We go out and play our game,” Betts told Fox News Digital in a recent interview.
“I'm sure there are guys who love politics and want to be in it, but I'm not sure why the world looks at us that way. But it is what it is.”
The player who has played eight times said that the athletes are in a difficult situation when they visit the White House because it is confirmed that he is upset with this decision.
“Athletes, we're in a position where, you know, especially me, I'm doomed if I don't do it,” Betts told Fox News Digital in an interview on behalf of LGND, his glove company.
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President Donald Trump and Mookie Betts shake hands in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, Monday, April 7, 2025. Trump hosted the Los Angeles Dodgers to celebrate their 2024 World Series victory. (Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Knowing that backlash would come regardless of his decision, Betts decided to do what was best for him and his family.
“So instead of trying to please other people, it allowed me to have fun, you know, be happy and spend time with my family. Like I said, I got a new baby, so find time to spend with him,” Betts continued.
“I don't worry too much about it. Like I said, my attitude is if I'm going to drive everybody crazy, drive somebody crazy, then at least I'm going to have fun. So, that's where I'm at.”
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Mookie Betts of the Los Angeles Dodgers is greeted by first base coach Chris Woodward after hitting an RBI single during the sixth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, Calif. (William Liang/Imagn Images)
Betts is in the 13th season of his impressive career but has struggled this year compared to previous seasons. The Nashville native is a career .288 hitter with 302 home runs and 944 RBIs, but is hitting just .235 with 11 home runs and 31 RBIs this season.
The six-time Gold Glove winner will look to get back on track in the second half and help lead the Dodgers to a third straight World Series title.
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