Dodgers’ Hernández Shares Fan’s Critical Letter With Millions After White House Snub

Kiké Hernández, a veteran utility player for the Los Angeles Dodgers known for postseason heroics and an affable demeanor, has become embroiled in controversy over his choice to forgo the team’s July 23 White House celebration of their 2026 World Series championship. The 34-year-old cited an assignment to begin minor-league rehabilitation work for a strained left oblique as the official reason. However, Hernández later revealed a more candid explanation, noting that had he been active, he likely would have declined the invitation regardless.

A disgruntled fan identified as Larry responded by mailing a typed letter to the ballpark, in which he accused the Puerto Rican-born player of disrespect and entitlement, citing Hernández’s previous participation in the team’s April 2025 White House visit following their 2024 championship. The letter also referenced the Dodgers’ association with the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and alleged disparagement of Catholicism. Rather than discard the correspondence, Hernández photographed the missive—complete with Larry’s unredacted return address—and shared it with his 1.5 million social media followers.

Superstar teammate Mookie Betts is also expected to miss the July 23 event. Betts previously declined a White House visit with the Boston Red Sox in 2019 during Donald Trump’s first term. Hernández has consistently expressed opposition to Trump’s immigration policies, a stance reinforced by controversy that erupted at Dodger Stadium in 2025 when rumors circulated about immigration officials’ presence at the venue.

Championship White House visits, historically nonpartisan celebrations of athletic achievement, have become ideologically charged affairs in recent years. Observers have noted that publicly identifying the letter’s author represents a significant breach of decorum, regardless of one’s position on either the player’s decision or the fan’s critique.