The 2028 Summer Olympics: A Potential Showcase for MLB Stars
In a significant development for baseball enthusiasts, the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles may see Major League Baseball (MLB) stars participate in the Games for the first time. This possibility has sparked excitement among both players and fans alike. Among those eagerly anticipating the event are some of the biggest names in baseball, who have expressed their desire to represent their country on the Olympic stage.
One of the most vocal proponents of this potential shift is Bryce Harper. "Bryce Harper has enthused about the possibility of suiting up for the United States in the 2028 Olympiad," reflecting the enthusiasm shared by many of his peers. Harper, who will be 35 years old in 2028, is joined by fellow star Aaron Judge in his excitement. Judge, who will be 36 at the time of the Games, has also expressed a strong desire to don the Team USA jersey.
2028, however, is not just about the seasoned veterans. Rising stars like Adley Rutschman, who will be 30, and Triston Casas, who will be 28, are also excited about the potential of playing in the Olympics. Casas has already made a name for himself with an impressive OPS+ of 127 and 35 homers in 181 games with the Boston Red Sox, showcasing the depth of talent the United States could bring to the international stage.
The younger generation, too, is represented with players like Jackson Holliday and Gunnar Henderson. Holliday, who is currently 20 years old and recently made his major league debut, will be just 24 when the Olympics come around. Henderson, at 27, is expected to be in his prime, along with Bobby Witt Jr. and Riley Greene, both set to be 28 and 27, respectively, in 2028. Witt Jr. is particularly noteworthy, as he is currently an MVP candidate in the American League at the age of 24.
Another standout prospect is James Wood, a top-10 overall prospect in the high minors. Currently 21, Wood's potential inclusion in the 2028 roster could add yet another dimension to the team's capabilities. Paul Skenes, considered the most hyped pitching prospect since Stephen Strasburg, will be 26 and could be a significant asset for Team USA's pitching staff.
Aaron Judge’s accomplishments further underscore the talent pool that the U.S. could draw from. Since turning 30 on April 26, 2022, Judge has amassed an OPS north of 1.100 and hit 137 homers in 363 games, showcasing his enduring skill and power at the plate.
Baseball's return to the Summer Olympics is eagerly awaited by fans who were disappointed by its absence from the recently concluded Paris Summer Olympics. The sport’s inclusion in the 2028 Games not only brings it back to the Olympics but also places it in the heartland of baseball talent in the United States.
The excitement surrounding this possibility is palpable, and the 2028 Summer Olympics could serve as a grand stage for MLB players to showcase their talents to a global audience. Whether it’s seasoned veterans like Harper and Judge or rising young stars like Witt Jr. and Wood, the potential for a dream team representing the United States is a tantalizing prospect that could elevate the profile of both the sport and the Olympic Games as a whole.