The excitement surrounding the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles is building, primarily due to the potential inclusion of Major League Baseball stars for the first time in the Games' history. With baseball set to return to the Olympic roster after its absence from the Paris Summer Olympics, some of the game's biggest names have expressed their enthusiastic anticipation.
Stars Excited for the Opportunity of a Lifetime
Among the players thrilled by the prospect is Bryce Harper. The Philadelphia Phillies standout, who will be 35 years old in 2028, has long been a vocal advocate for representing his country on the international stage. "Bryce Harper has enthused about the possibility of suiting up for the United States in the 2028 Olympiad," he shared recently, reflecting the general sentiment among his peers.
Another eager participant is Aaron Judge, the Yankees' slugger. Judge, who has consistently demonstrated his power and skill since turning 30 on April 26, 2022—boasting an OPS over 1.100 and hitting 137 homers in 363 games—will be 36 during the 2028 Olympics. His excitement mirrors Harper's, as the chance to don the Team USA jersey for an event of such magnitude is unparalleled.
Young Talent on the Horizon
The United States won't be relying solely on the seasoned veterans. Rising stars like Adley Rutschman, who will be 30 in 2028, and Triston Casas, slated to be 28, are also expected to play crucial roles. Casas, in particular, has shown tremendous potential with an OPS+ of 127 and 35 homers in 181 games with the Boston Red Sox. His development could be a game-changer for Team USA.
Even younger prospects are making waves and could be instrumental by the time the Olympics come around. Jackson Holliday, who recently made his major league debut at 20, will be 24 in 2028, while Gunnar Henderson and Bobby Witt Jr. will be 27 and 28, respectively. Witt Jr., currently an MVP candidate in the American League at 24, exemplifies the youth movement that could propel the U.S. team to unprecedented heights.
Riley Greene, who will also be 27 in 2028, alongside top-10 overall prospect James Wood, now 21, adds depth and versatility to an already formidable lineup. Their presence signifies a blend of young vigor and mature talent, creating a well-rounded roster eager to compete on the Olympic stage.
The Pitching Powerhouse
On the mound, the buzz surrounds Paul Skenes, deemed the most hyped pitching prospect since Stephen Strasburg. Skenes, who will be 26 in 2028, represents a new generation of pitchers whose impact could be pivotal for Team USA. With a combination of control, velocity, and game intelligence, Skenes is marked as one to watch as the Games approach.
Los Angeles, a city with a rich sports history, provides a fitting backdrop for baseball's return to the Olympics. The inclusion of MLB stars could be a defining moment, not just for the sport but for the Games themselves, as baseball's absence was keenly felt during the Paris Olympics.
A Unified Vision
The anticipation is palpable among players, fans, and executives alike. The potential participation of baseball's top talent underscores a broader vision for the sport internationally. As we near the 2028 Summer Olympics, the excitement will only grow, with discussions about rosters, strategies, and the impact of these stars on the global stage taking center stage.
The blend of veterans like Harper and Judge with burgeoning talents like Holliday, Henderson, and Skenes promises to make the 2028 Olympic baseball tournament a highlight of the Los Angeles Games. For the players, it’s an opportunity to showcase their skills and patriotic pride; for the fans, it's a chance to witness their heroes compete for Olympic gold.
Indeed, the return of baseball to the Olympics, especially with potential participation from MLB stars, reinvigorates the spirit of the Games and offers a glimpse into a thrilling future for American baseball on the world stage.