Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Trump honors World Series champions

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WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump recognized the Houston Astros on Monday for their first World Series victory, an “incredible victory” that Trump said was even more special following the devastatio­n Hurricane Harvey wrought on the Texas city.

Houston defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 7 last year to clinch the title. Trump, who played baseball in high school, declared it “was one of the greatest baseball games anybody has ever seen.” The Astros jumped to a 5-0 lead by the second inning, ultimately winning the game 5-1.

“It’s really a reminder why baseball is our national pastime,” he said at the White House.

Trump thanked the players for spending time with people who were displaced by Harvey’s floodwater­s, and for donating money.

“Our administra­tion will continue to stand by the people of Texas and Florida and Puerto Rico, Louisiana, even Alabama and so many other places were affected, and we’re standing by all of them,” said Trump, whose response to last fall’s hurricanes was criticized by some.

Trump singled out some players by name, including American League MVP Jose Altuve. “Who could forget the amazing Jose Altuve? Where’s Jose? He’s much taller than I thought,” Trump said, directly addressing the 5-foot-6 second baseman and turning to shake his hand.

At least three Astros — recently retired outfielder Carlos Beltran, pitcher Ken Giles and shortstop Carlos Correa — were absent Monday. Beltran and Giles previously had cited family reasons for why they would skip the event. Asked afterward about Correa’s absence, team owner Jim Crane told reporters during an availabili­ty outside the White House that a “couple of the guys had family issues and spring break, so we didn’t really review that with them.”

“Anytime you can get a chance to come and do something like this, it’s going to be a great time,” right fielder Josh Reddick said after the event. Manager A.J. Hinch said it was a “very special” day because just one Major League Baseball team a year gets to come to the White House.

“We’ll forever remember this,” Hinch said.

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