As the world looks forward to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, there is a growing anticipation surrounding the possibility of Major League Baseball (MLB) players getting the chance to compete in one of the world's most prestigious sporting events. While baseball and softball will sit out the 2024 Paris Olympics, they are expected to make a triumphant return in 2028, fueling excitement among fans and players alike.
One of the most vocal advocates for MLB players' participation is Aaron Judge, the star outfielder for the New York Yankees. Judge has not been shy about his aspirations to don the national colors and compete on the Olympic 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," said Judge. "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."
At present, MLB restricts players on 40-man rosters from participating in the Olympics, a policy that has drawn criticism and sparked debate within the baseball community. Several high-profile players, including Bryce Harper and Shohei Ohtani, have also expressed their support for a change, voicing a shared desire to represent their countries on such a grand stage.
This year, Judge, who is currently boasting a remarkable slash line of .321/.456/.691 with 41 home runs, has reiterated his enthusiasm. However, he remains focused on his immediate responsibilities to the Yankees. "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. I think especially after signing a nine-year contract, for me, priorities are New York," Judge emphasized. "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 Commissioner Rob Manfred has shown an "open-minded" approach towards the inclusion of MLB players in the Olympics, a stance that has given many players and fans a glimmer of hope. The success of Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league, which paused its season during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics to allow its players to compete for and win a gold medal, could serve as a precedent for MLB to consider.
Judge, who will be 36 years old during the 2028 Olympics, has continued to build on an impressive career. In the same number of team games in 2022, he was hitting .300/.397/.674 with 46 home runs, showcasing his consistent prowess at the plate. His passion and determination are evident not only in his performance but also in his willingness to pursue new challenges such as the Olympics.
Beyond personal aspirations, the inclusion of MLB stars in the Olympics could significantly impact the sport's global appeal. The return of baseball to the Olympics would be particularly meaningful for countries with rich baseball traditions and burgeoning talent pools. Players like Judge, with their star power and talent, could elevate the competition while inspiring future generations of athletes across the globe.
The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics represent a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between professional baseball and the international stage. Given the enthusiasm from players and the open-mindedness of MLB leadership, fans may finally witness their favorite MLB stars competing for Olympic gold. As the preparations for the 2028 Games progress, the baseball community remains hopeful for a ruling that will allow these stars, bound by their love for the sport and country, to make history.
Looking even further ahead, Brisbane, Australia, will host the Summer Olympics in 2032, offering yet another potential platform for MLB players to showcase their skills on the global stage. For now, all eyes are on Los Angeles 2028, as the countdown begins and the baseball world awaits a historic decision.