As the 2024 Paris Olympics approaches, baseball and softball fans will notice a significant omission—both sports have been left out of the Olympic program. However, the anticipation is building for their potential comeback at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, where baseball enthusiasts hope to see Major League Baseball (MLB) players on the field representing their countries.
While MLB has traditionally excluded players on 40-man rosters from participating in the Olympics, the support for change is growing. Two of baseball's biggest stars, Bryce Harper and Shohei Ohtani, have publicly voiced their support for MLB players participating in the 2028 Olympics. Their endorsements add significant weight to the ongoing debate.
Aaron Judge's Aspiration
Another prominent voice in favor of this change is Aaron Judge, the star outfielder for the New York Yankees. Judge has expressed his strong desire to compete in the 2028 Olympics. "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. He further elaborated on his unique position, noting, "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 current performance only adds to his credibility. With a slash line of .321/.456/.691 and 41 home runs this season, he is demonstrating why he is considered one of the most formidable hitters in the game. Comparatively, in the same number of team games in 2022, Judge was hitting .300/.397/.674 with 46 home runs, underscoring his consistent excellence.
Long-term Commitment, Immediate Focus
Despite his eagerness to play in the Olympics, Judge remains firmly focused on his current commitments. "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," he said, referring to his nine-year contract with the Yankees. "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."
MLB's Stance and Global Influence
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has indicated an "open-minded" stance on the inclusion of MLB players in the 2028 Olympics. This is a significant shift, considering MLB's previous reluctance to allow star players to participate. The international stage could benefit from the presence of the MLB's top talent, potentially increasing the sport's global appeal.
Looking at other baseball leagues worldwide, Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) demonstrated the benefits of allowing players to compete in the Olympics. During the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, NPB paused its season, giving its players the opportunity to compete—and win a gold medal—in baseball. This move not only earned Japan prestigious Olympic hardware but also heightened the profile of Japanese baseball worldwide.
With the anticipated return of baseball in the Los Angeles Olympics, the inclusion of MLB players could elevate the competition to a new level. The decision rests on whether logistical and contractual challenges can be overcome. The prospect of seeing stars like Aaron Judge take the Olympic stage is tantalizing for fans and players alike.
As the sporting world looks toward Los Angeles in 2028, MLB's potential participation looms large. The 36-year-old Judge will be nearing the latter stages of his career by then, but his drive and determination to represent his country might just make him a standout player on an international roster.
And while baseball enthusiasts dream of an Olympic showdown featuring MLB's best, another host city is on the horizon. Brisbane, Australia, will host the Summer Olympics in 2032, continuing the legacy and passion for sports. For now, all eyes are on the decisions that will shape baseball's future in the Olympics, with the fervent hopes of players and fans alike hanging in the balance.