When baseball and softball were excluded from the 2024 Olympic program in Paris, it sparked an outcry from fans and players alike. However, the sports are set for a triumphant return in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. This potential inclusion has ignited discussions not only among fans but also within the corridors of Major League Baseball (MLB) and among the players themselves.
One of the key discussions revolves around whether MLB players, specifically those on 40-man rosters who are currently excluded from Olympic participation, will be allowed to compete. MLB stars Bryce Harper and Shohei Ohtani have been vocal about their support for MLB players joining Team USA in 2028. Their sentiments are shared by Aaron Judge, the star outfielder for the New York Yankees, who has also expressed a desire to compete on the world stage.
Aaron Judge's Olympic Aspirations
Aaron Judge, who is currently delivering a remarkable season with a slash line of .321/.456/.691 and 41 home runs, has candidly shared his aspirations. "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 passionately. "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 comments reflect not only his excitement but also his long-standing desire to don the national jersey. Judge, who will be 36 years old during the 2028 Olympics, remains optimistic about his chances. Despite his age at that time, his current form suggests he will be more than capable of making a significant impact.
He also understands the importance of his commitments to the New York Yankees, especially after signing a lucrative nine-year contract with the team. "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. 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 said, showcasing his dedication to his current team.
MLB’s Position on Olympic Participation
The debate around MLB participation continues to simmer, with a notable development from MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred. Historically, MLB's stance has been one of exclusion for players on 40-man rosters due to concerns over the season's schedule and risk of injury. However, Manfred has recently indicated a shift in perspective, describing his stance as "open-minded" about allowing MLB players to compete in the Olympics.
This change mirrors the approach taken by Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), which paused its season during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics to enable its players to participate. NPB's decision paid off handsomely, with Japan clinching the gold medal in baseball. This precedent may influence MLB's decision-making process as, undoubtedly, the presence of top-tier MLB talent would elevate the competition's quality and global appeal.
Looking Ahead: The Road to 2028
As we inch closer to the Los Angeles Olympic Games, the enthusiasm among players and fans is expected to rise. The possibility of watching MLB greats like Bryce Harper, Shohei Ohtani, and Aaron Judge compete in the Olympics promises to bring a new level of excitement to the sport. It also aligns with the broader goal of expanding baseball’s global reach and popularity.
While there are logistical hurdles to clear, the potential inclusion of MLB players in the 2028 Olympics could mark a significant milestone for baseball. It could foster greater international engagement with the sport and inspire a new generation of players and fans.
Beneath the surface of these discussions lies a common theme: the blending of personal ambition with national pride. For players like Judge, the opportunity to compete for Olympic gold transcends individual accolades and contracts. It is about representing their country on one of the world’s largest stages and contributing to a legacy that extends beyond the diamond.
The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics promises to be a landmark event, not just for baseball but for sports globally. As the clock ticks down, the voices advocating for MLB participation grow louder, underscoring the unique blend of tradition, passion, and future-looking vision that characterizes the sport.