Baseball's Olympic Future: MLB Stars Eyeing 2028 Games
Baseball fans worldwide were disappointed to learn that baseball and softball will be absent from the Olympic program in Paris in 2024. However, the sport's loyal followers can look forward to its anticipated return in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. This return brings with it the intriguing possibility of Major League Baseball (MLB) stars gracing the Olympic stage. Several prominent players have already voiced their desire to represent their countries if given the chance, setting the stage for a historic moment in Olympic baseball.
Currently, MLB excludes players on 40-man rosters from participating in the Olympics. This policy has sparked debate within the baseball community, especially among the sport's biggest stars. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has adopted a progressive stance on the matter, indicating that he is "open-minded" about the potential inclusion of MLB players in the 2028 Olympics. This shift could pave the way for a landmark decision that would see some of baseball's most recognizable names donning their national colors.
Stars Speak Out
Among the vocal supporters of MLB players participating in the Olympics are superstars Bryce Harper and Shohei Ohtani. Their endorsement adds significant weight to the conversation, but it is Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees' star outfielder, who has been particularly passionate about the opportunity.
"I'd love to play. If they give us the opportunity -- I don't know what the ruling or anything has come out about that -- but I'm all in on that," Judge said. "There's very few opportunities to get to do that and especially, hopefully, in the prime of my career where I can still do it and make an impact, I'd love to. I've never represented my country before, never got invited to those Team USA (camps as an amateur), never really made the cut for those. Hopefully now I can make the cut."
Judge's enthusiasm for the Olympics is clear, but he also balances this desire with his commitment to the Yankees. "It would be an honor to represent my country and play in that. But my main goal is what I can do here in New York and what I can do to bring a championship back here," he added. "I think especially after signing a nine-year contract, for me, priorities are New York. Maybe four years down the road, hopefully I can still make the team and get an opportunity to play. But right now for me, my focus is here."
Judge's Stellar Performance
Judge, who is currently boasting a slash line of .321/.456/.691 with 41 home runs this season, is certainly making a compelling case for his future Olympic bid. His performance now mirrors his impressive stats from the same point in the 2022 season when he was hitting .300/.397/.674 with 46 home runs. By the time the 2028 Olympics roll around, Judge will be 36 years old. His continued excellence on the field suggests he could still be a formidable presence come 2028.
Lessons from Japan
MLB could take a cue from Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), which paused its season during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics to allow its players to compete. This decision paid off as Japan clinched the gold medal in baseball. The success of this model provides a precedent that MLB might consider following, especially if it wants to capitalize on the international appeal and competitive spirit of the Olympics.
The potential inclusion of MLB players in the 2028 Olympics represents more than just an opportunity for players like Judge. It signifies a possible new chapter in the relationship between professional baseball and international competition. As the excitement builds and discussions continue, fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see if baseball's brightest stars will shine on one of the world's biggest stages.
With the next Summer Olympics set in Brisbane, Australia, in 2032, the prospect of MLB players participating in multiple Olympic Games only adds to the excitement and anticipation. Baseball's return in 2028 with MLB stars could set a new standard for the sport's presence on the global stage, bringing a dynamic energy for years to come.