The 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles are shaping up to be a spectacular event, not just for the sheer scale and grandeur inherent to the Games, but also for the potential return of baseball to the Olympic roster. After being absent from the recently concluded Paris Summer Olympics, baseball is making its highly anticipated return, and this time, with some of Major League Baseball's brightest stars potentially suiting up for their respective countries.
MLB Stars Eyeing Olympic Glory
Among the most excited about this opportunity is Bryce Harper. Harper, who will be 35 in 2028, has openly expressed his enthusiasm about the possibility of playing for Team USA. “Bryce Harper has enthused about the possibility of suiting up for the United States in the 2028 Olympiad," and his anticipation is shared by fans and players alike. Harper’s presence would bring not just experience but also a high level of skill and charisma to the team.
Joining Harper in expressing excitement is Aaron Judge. Judge, who will be 36 in 2028, has maintained impressive statistics, with an OPS north of 1.100 and 137 homers in 363 games since his 30th birthday on April 26, 2022. His potential participation in the Olympics is something fans are eagerly anticipating. Judge's ability to perform under pressure and his power at the plate could be a critical asset for Team USA.
A New Era for Young Stars
The inclusion of MLB stars isn’t just about seasoned veterans. Younger players like Adley Rutschman, who will be 30 years old in 2028, and Triston Casas, who will be 28, are also looking ahead to represent their country. Casas, in particular, has shown remarkable promise with an OPS+ of 127 and 35 homers in 181 games with the Boston Red Sox. These younger talents are expected to bring dynamism and energy to the team.
Jackson Holliday, another bright prospect, made his major league debut at the age of 20 and will be 24 by the time the 2028 Olympics roll around. Alongside him, Gunnar Henderson and Bobby Witt Jr., who will be 27 and 28 respectively, are expected to make significant contributions. Witt Jr. is already an MVP candidate in the American League at 24, highlighting his exceptional ability and potential.
Riley Greene, who will be 27 in 2028, and James Wood, a top-10 overall prospect currently at 21, are emerging talents that fans and analysts alike are watching closely. Their growth and development over the next few years could make them key players in the quest for Olympic gold.
Pitching Prospects
On the pitching side, all eyes are on Paul Skenes, who will be 26 in 2028. Skenes is touted as the most hyped pitching prospect since Stephen Strasburg, setting high expectations for his impact on the mound. A strong pitching lineup is crucial for any baseball team, and Skenes’ potential inclusion would add significant strength to Team USA’s roster.
Building a Winning Team
The anticipation surrounding the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles continues to build, especially with the potential inclusion of Major League Baseball stars. The excitement expressed by Bryce Harper and Aaron Judge resonates with baseball fans who have long awaited the return of their sport to the Olympic stage. As we look forward to the Games, the blend of seasoned veterans and up-and-coming talents promises to make Team USA a formidable contender for the gold medal.
With names like Harper, Judge, Rutschman, Casas, Holliday, Henderson, Witt Jr., Greene, Wood, and Skenes potentially on the roster, the 2028 Olympics could be one of the most memorable in baseball history. The journey to the Games is just beginning, but the potential for historic performances and new legacies is already sparking excitement across the baseball world.