As the sporting world eagerly looks towards the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, excitement is brewing not just among fans, but also among the athletes themselves. The potential return of baseball to the Olympic stage has ignited a spark, fueled in part by the enthusiastic reactions from some of Major League Baseball's biggest stars.
The Return of Baseball
Baseball, a sport with a storied Olympic history, has been absent from the recent Paris Summer Olympics. However, its return in Los Angeles is anticipated with great enthusiasm. This could mark a significant moment in Olympic history, especially with Major League Baseball potentially allowing its stars to participate for the first time.
Such participation would not only elevate the level of competition but also bring a new dimension to the games, as globally recognized athletes could take center stage. Among those excited about this possibility is Bryce Harper, who has expressed his desire to don the United States jersey in 2028. "Bryce Harper has enthused about the possibility of suiting up for the United States in the 2028 Olympiad," shared Harper, highlighting the excitement permeating the MLB ranks.
Harper will be 35 years old in 2028, an age that many would consider the twilight of a baseball career. Yet, his enthusiasm underscores his enduring love for the game and his commitment to representing his country. Similarly, Aaron Judge, another MLB superstar, has shown excitement about the chance to represent Team USA at the Olympics. Like Harper, Judge will also be in his mid-30s, specifically 36, but his recent performance indicates that age is just a number. Judge has maintained an OPS north of 1.100 since turning 30 and has amassed an impressive 137 homers in 363 games during this period. Such statistics affirm his status as one of the game's elite hitters.
Young Talent on the Horizon
While veterans like Harper and Judge lead with their experience and prowess, they are also joined by a wave of younger talent poised to shine on the Olympic stage. Adley Rutschman, who will be 30 years old in 2028, stands at the forefront of this youthful brigade. Triston Casas, set to be 28, brings an impressive record to the table, boasting an OPS+ of 127 and 35 homers in just 181 games with the Boston Red Sox. Their presence promises a blend of experience and youthful vigor, which could prove crucial in the high-stakes environment of the Olympics.
Jackson Holliday, a 20-year-old who recently made his major league debut, will be just 24 in 2028. He represents the new generation of baseball talent, ready to make their mark. Gunnar Henderson and Bobby Witt Jr., both destined to be in their late 20s, are also players to watch. Witt Jr., currently a notable MVP candidate in the American League at the age of 24, has the potential to be a cornerstone player for Team USA.
The Prospect Pipeline
Beyond the established young stars, the prospect pipeline promises more excitement. James Wood, a top-10 overall prospect residing in the high minors, will be 21 in 2028. His potential has already drawn comparisons to some of the game's greats. Pitching phenom Paul Skenes, considered the most hyped pitching prospect since Stephen Strasburg, will be 26—a prime age for a pitcher to showcase his talent on a global stage.
This blend of established stars, dynamic young players, and promising prospects paints a picture of a formidable Team USA for the 2028 Summer Olympics. The potential participation of MLB stars could elevate the competition and bring baseball enthusiasts worldwide a spectacle not seen in recent Olympic history.
As these athletes continue their careers in Major League Baseball, their sights are undoubtedly set on Los Angeles 2028. The excitement and anticipation surrounding the event, combined with the return of baseball, make the upcoming Olympics a beacon of athletic excellence and national pride. With a mixture of veteran experience and young talent, Team USA seems poised to make a significant impact on the Olympic stage.
The 2028 Summer Olympics promises to be a milestone event for baseball, and the players' enthusiasm is palpable. Whether they are seasoned veterans like Bryce Harper and Aaron Judge or rising stars like Jackson Holliday and Paul Skenes, the spirit of competition and national pride is set to bring out the best in these athletes, creating unforgettable moments for fans around the globe.