President Biden hosts Astros, says he can relate to Dusty Baker, oldest manager to win World Series

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President Biden hosted the Houston Astros at the White House, celebrating their World Series win, and made a connection with Dusty Baker, the oldest manager to ever win the title. At the age of 73, Baker led the Astros to victory last season, and at the event, Biden, now 80, remarked that he could understand what it’s like to be considered past one’s prime. The president himself holds the distinction of being the oldest person ever elected to the office and is seeking re-election in 2024.

Having been involved with baseball for many years, Baker clinched his first World Series title in his 25th season as a manager. He previously won a World Series as a player with the Los Angeles Dodgers and had come close to winning twice before as a manager. Reflecting on Baker’s lengthy career, Biden humorously noted that he used to root for him when he was younger, despite being older than Baker himself.

Baker, currently 74, joined the Astros three seasons ago, following a scandal that cost the previous manager and general manager their positions. Like Biden, he is aiming for a repeat and hopes to be back at the White House after winning another title.

During the ceremony, the team presented the 46th president with a jersey bearing the number 46, and the MLB trophy was displayed. The Astros’ triumph over the Philadelphia Phillies in last year’s World Series was particularly notable as the first lady is a Phillies fan, prompting the president to joke about his divided loyalties.

The Astros are maintaining a competitive position this season, holding a wild-card spot and trailing the Texas Rangers by just 2 1/2 games in the AL West. Rookie Jeremy Peña, the first new player to win the World Series MVP award, was present at the ceremony, where Baker commended his team’s belief, perseverance, and character.

Beyond the sport, Biden expressed gratitude for the Astros’ support of the Uvalde, Texas community, which was devastated by a tragic shooting last year. The team’s efforts to uplift the community by hosting hundreds of residents at a game exemplified the true spirit of sports, according to the president. Rather than just focusing on winning, Biden stressed that the best teams lift people up, unite them, and foster a sense of support and connection.

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