The absence of baseball and softball in the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics has left a notable void for fans and athletes alike. However, the sport is poised for a grand return during the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, reigniting hopes and aspirations among Major League Baseball (MLB) players and enthusiasts.
Historically, MLB has imposed strict limitations, excluding players on 40-man rosters from taking part in the Olympics. This policy, aimed at preserving the integrity of the season and reducing injury risks, has faced increasing scrutiny and calls for change. Two of baseball's most prominent figures, Bryce Harper and Shohei Ohtani, have openly voiced their enthusiasm for MLB players participating in the 2028 Olympics, adding significant weight to the ongoing debate.
Player Voices: Aspiring for Olympic Glory
Aaron Judge, the star outfielder for the New York Yankees, has also expressed his aspirations to compete in the 2028 Olympics. Judge, who is currently showcasing an impressive slash line of .321/.456/.691 with 41 home runs this season, is eager for the chance to represent his country on the international stage. "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 stated. Despite never having represented Team USA at various levels during his amateur years, Judge remains optimistic. "There's very few opportunities to get to do that... Hopefully now I can make the cut," he added.
Judge's ambitions come at a peak in his career where he continues to excel. In a comparable period in 2022, Judge was hitting .300/.397/.674 with 46 home runs, showcasing his consistent and extraordinary performance. With a nine-year contract signed with the Yankees, Judge acknowledges the importance of his commitment to his 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... 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 emphasized.
By the time the Los Angeles Olympics roll around, Judge will be 36 years old. While this marks the latter stages of a professional athlete's prime, Judge's current form suggests he could still be a formidable presence and an asset to Team USA.
MLB's Stance on Olympic Participation
The inclusion of MLB players in the Olympics has seen a shift in perspective from the league's higher-ups. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has expressed an "open-minded" stance regarding the participation of MLB players in the 2028 Olympics. This evolving attitude could pave the way for MLB stars to compete on the global stage, much like their counterparts in Japan.
In a notable precedent, Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) paused its season during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, which allowed its players to compete. This decision paid off handsomely, as Japan clinched the gold medal in baseball. The success of NPB's approach may serve as a compelling argument for MLB to reconsider its policies, especially with strong advocacy from players and fan interest reaching new heights.
Looking Beyond 2028
While the focus is currently on the 2028 Los Angeles Games, future Olympics already have cities in place. Brisbane, Australia, is set to host the Summer Olympics in 2032. The determination of whether MLB players will participate in these games could heavily influence the sport’s representation in future Olympic events. The potential inclusion of top-tier talent from MLB would undoubtedly heighten the competition’s prestige and global appeal.
The excitement surrounding baseball’s anticipated reinstatement in the 2028 Olympics reflects a broader enthusiasm for the sport’s global growth. The possibility of MLB's best joining to compete for Olympic gold could mark a historic moment in baseball, blending the pinnacle of professional play with the spirit of international competition.