As the 2028 Summer Olympics draw closer, excitement builds not just among fans but also among some of baseball’s biggest stars. The international event, set to take place in Los Angeles, promises a potential milestone: the return of baseball to the Olympic program.
Baseball was notably absent from the recently concluded Paris Summer Olympics, but the sport is slated for a comeback in 2028. This revival brings with it the tantalizing possibility of Major League Baseball (MLB) allowing its stars to participate for the first time, significantly elevating the profile of the competition.
The Excitement of Participation
Among the players eagerly waiting for this opportunity is Bryce Harper. The Philadelphia Phillies' outfielder has been vocal about his enthusiasm to represent the United States on this grand stage. "Bryce Harper has enthused about the possibility of suiting up for the United States in the 2028 Olympiad," echoes his desire to don the national colors.
Another marquee name looking forward to the 2028 Olympics is Aaron Judge. Known for his towering home runs and incredible presence on the field, Judge sees the Olympics as a chance to achieve something special. "Just to wear 'USA' again would be an honor," Judge remarked, reflecting the shared sentiment among many American stars.
Veterans and Young Bloods
In 2028, Bryce Harper will be 35 years old, while Aaron Judge will be 36. Despite their age, both players are expected to bring their vast experience and undeniable talent to Team USA. Harper, a former National League MVP, and Judge, who has an OPS north of 1.100 since turning 30 and has cranked out 137 homers in 363 games, represent the possibility of seasoned stars taking the field.
The prospect of participation extends beyond just these veterans. Adley Rutschman will be 30 by 2028, ready to contribute to the team with his skills behind the plate. The youth movement in American baseball brings names like Triston Casas, who will be 28 years old and already boasts an impressive OPS+ of 127 along with 35 homers in 181 games with the Boston Red Sox.
Other young talents like Jackson Holliday, who will be 24 years old and recently made his MLB debut, Gunnar Henderson (27), and MVP candidate Bobby Witt Jr. (28) are also gearing up for what could be a hallmark event in their careers. Witt Jr., at the age of 24, has already established himself as a premier player in the American League.
Future Stars
The 2028 Olympics might also feature some of baseball's top young prospects, including Riley Greene (27), James Wood—a top-10 overall prospect currently 21 years old—and Paul Skenes, who will be 26 by the time of the Games. Skenes, hailed as the most hyped pitching prospect since Stephen Strasburg, could be a central figure for Team USA on the mound.
This blend of seasoned veterans and emerging stars promises an exciting dynamic for the 2028 Olympics. The potential inclusion of MLB players raises the stakes and global appeal of Olympic baseball, fostering a unique sense of anticipation among athletes and fans alike.
The decision to allow MLB's participation could redefine the sport’s presence on the international stage, showcasing a mix of power, skill, and youthful exuberance. As the countdown to the 2028 Summer Olympics continues, baseball enthusiasts around the world are eager to see their favorite stars perform under the Olympic spotlight, representing the pinnacle of American talent.
With Los Angeles as the backdrop, the return of baseball to the Olympics promises to be a historic and thrilling event, capturing the essence of sportsmanship and international competition.