As the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics approach their finale, baseball is once again missing from the Olympic roster. Despite its absence, there’s growing momentum and hope that Major League Baseball (MLB) players might make their Olympic debut in Los Angeles in 2028.
The Push for MLB Inclusion
- Bryce Harper’s Desire: Bryce Harper, a two-time MVP, recently showed his interest in participating by wearing a U.S. Olympic Team hat, signaling his strong desire to compete on the Olympic stage.
- Shohei Ohtani’s Support: Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani also voiced his interest, emphasizing that Olympic participation could boost baseball’s global appeal.
The Case for 2028
- Casey Wasserman’s Initiative: Casey Wasserman, chairman of the L.A. 2028 Olympic Committee and CEO of Wasserman Sports, has been advocating for MLB involvement. His presentation at the MLB owners meetings in February argued that the 2028 Games in Los Angeles present a unique opportunity due to the city’s existing baseball infrastructure.
- Commissioner’s Stance: MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed openness to the idea, suggesting that while baseball’s presence in Paris is unlikely, the L.A. Games could be a different story.
Historical Context
- Baseball’s Olympic History: Baseball was included in the Olympics from 1992 to 2008. However, it was removed from the program due to concerns about doping and the lack of international competition.
- Return in Tokyo: Baseball made a comeback in the Tokyo 2020 Games, albeit without MLB players. Japan, with its strong domestic league, won gold, while the U.S. team, featuring a mix of prospects and veterans, earned silver.
Challenges and Opportunities
- Past Challenges: The removal of baseball from the Olympics was largely due to issues with doping controls and the fact that MLB players did not participate, which impacted the sport’s visibility and appeal on the global stage.
- Future Prospects: With the 2028 Games in Los Angeles, the potential for MLB stars to compete is high. The existing baseball infrastructure in L.A. could facilitate the inclusion of major league players, enhancing the sport’s visibility and excitement.