The 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles promise to be a historic event, with the return of a beloved sport that has captivated fans worldwide. Baseball, absent from the recently concluded Paris Summer Olympics, is set to make its comeback. This return could usher in an era where Major League Baseball (MLB) stars participate in the Games for the first time, a scenario that has generated considerable excitement among both players and fans.
Bryce Harper, the dynamic outfielder for the Philadelphia Phillies, is particularly enthused about the possibility of representing the United States on such a grand stage. "Bryce Harper has enthused about the possibility of suiting up for the United States in the 2028 Olympiad." This sentiment is echoed by Aaron Judge, the towering slugger for the New York Yankees, who has expressed his excitement about the potential to don the Team USA jersey in 2028.
Star-Studded Lineup
The inclusion of MLB stars in the Olympics would undoubtedly elevate the level of competition and bring unprecedented attention to baseball's Olympic return. Harper, who will be 35 years old in 2028, and Judge, who will be 36, represent a blend of seasoned veterans likely to bring their formidable skills and leadership to the team. Judge, in particular, has continued to impress with his performance. Since his 30th birthday on April 26, 2022, Judge has accumulated an OPS north of 1.100 and smashed 137 homers in 363 games, underlining his status as an elite player.
Another exciting prospect for Team USA could be Adley Rutschman, who will be 30 years old during the 2028 Olympics. Gunnar Henderson, Bobby Witt Jr., and Riley Greene, all of whom will be in their late twenties, are other young talents who could fortify the squad. Witt Jr.’s candidacy as an MVP in the American League at just 24 showcases the depth of young talent that could be available to the national team.
Emerging Talents
As thrilling as the inclusion of MLB stars could be, the younger crop of players also brings significant promise. Triston Casas, who will be 28 in 2028, stands out with an impressive OPS+ of 127 and 35 homers in 181 games with the Boston Red Sox. Jackson Holliday, the prodigious 20-year-old who recently made his major league debut, will be just 24 years old, providing a fresh and energetic presence to the team.
James Wood, currently a top-10 overall prospect in the high minors at 21, is another name to watch. By 2028, Wood will be 26 and could emerge as a key figure in Team USA's efforts. Paul Skenes, hailed as the most hyped pitching prospect since Stephen Strasburg, will also be 26 and could anchor the pitching staff with his exceptional talent.
A Bright Future for Baseball in the Olympics
The integration of MLB stars into the Olympics would be a milestone for the sport and a thrilling development for fans globally. With Bryce Harper and Aaron Judge leading the potential roster for Team USA, alongside a host of emerging and established talents, the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles are shaping up to be a landmark event for baseball. The excitement generated by the possibility of seeing these stars compete for their country reflects the unique allure of the Olympics and the universal appeal of baseball.
As we look forward to 2028, the prospect of witnessing baseball’s return to the Olympic stage with some of the game’s biggest names is not only a testament to the sport's enduring popularity but also a promise of unforgettable moments to come. The anticipation is palpable, and the countdown to Los Angeles 2028 has well and truly begun.