Excitement Builds as Major League Stars Eye 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles
The countdown to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles has begun, and the anticipation is palpable. One of the most exciting developments is the potential participation of Major League Baseball (MLB) stars in the Games, a prospect that has been a topic of fervent discussion and speculation.
Baseball, which was notably absent from the recently concluded Paris Summer Olympics, is set to make a triumphant return in 2028. With the possibility of featuring some of MLB's brightest stars, the stakes have been further elevated. The inclusion of professional baseball players could add a thrilling dimension to the Games, attracting both die-hard baseball fans and a global audience.
Two of baseball's elite, Bryce Harper and Aaron Judge, have already expressed their enthusiastic support for the idea. Harper, in particular, has been vocal about his aspirations. "Bryce Harper has enthused about the possibility of suiting up for the United States in the 2028 Olympiad," reflects the near-universal sentiment among his peers. The Philadelphia Phillies outfielder, who will be 35 years old by 2028, remains one of the sport's most electrifying talents and his potential presence in Los Angeles is generating considerable excitement.
Equally enthusiastic is the New York Yankees' powerhouse, Aaron Judge. Judge, who'll be 36 in 2028, is eager to showcase his prowess on an international stage. His recent performances underline why his inclusion is so highly anticipated. Since his 30th birthday on April 26, 2022, Judge has maintained an incredible OPS north of 1.100 and amassed 137 homers in just 363 games, proving his enduring skill and competitive edge.
It's not just the veterans who are looking ahead to 2028 with excitement. Young talents like Adley Rutschman, Triston Casas, Jackson Holliday, and Gunnar Henderson are also key figures to watch. Rutschman will be 30 by the Olympics, bringing his evolved game to the formidable U.S. team. The 28-year-old Casas, boasting an impressive OPS+ of 127 and 35 homers in 181 games for the Boston Red Sox, adds depth and power to the potential roster.
One of the most promising younger players is Jackson Holliday, who recently made his major league debut at the age of 20 and will be 24 in 2028. Both he and the 27-year-old Gunnar Henderson, along with Bobby Witt Jr., who will be 28 and is already an MVP candidate in the American League at 24, represent the future of American baseball and embody the dynamic and youthful spirit that could fuel Team USA to unprecedented heights.
Another key player to watch is Riley Greene, who will be 27 in 2028. His consistent performances have marked him as a player of significant potential. Meanwhile, James Wood, currently a top-10 overall prospect in the high minors at 21, adds another layer of depth and talent to the mix.
Pitching will also be a critical component of Team USA’s hopes for gold, and Paul Skenes is one name that stands out. Dubbed the most hyped pitching prospect since Stephen Strasburg, Skenes will be 26 in 2028. His powerful arm and strategic acumen could be instrumental in leading the United States to victory.
The prospect of MLB stars participating in the Olympics is not only about adding star power; it’s about inspiring the next generation of players and showing the global audience the exceptional skill and passion inherent in baseball. With veterans like Harper and Judge setting the stage, and emerging stars like Holliday and Skenes poised to make their mark, the 2028 Olympics could be a landmark event for the sport.
As the planning for the Los Angeles Games moves forward, the baseball community will be watching closely. The possibility of seeing MLB legends compete on one of the world’s biggest stages is a tantalizing prospect and one that promises to bring unprecedented excitement and attention to the Olympics. If MLB allows its stars to participate, the 2028 Summer Olympics will not only be a homecoming for baseball but a historic showcase of the game's very best.