The 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles are already generating tremendous excitement, especially among baseball fans. For the first time, Major League Baseball (MLB) might allow its stars to participate in the Games. This marks a significant shift for a sport that was notably absent from the recently concluded Paris Summer Olympics. With baseball set to return to the Olympic stage in 2028, some of the game's brightest stars are eagerly anticipating the chance to represent their countries.
Stars Ready for Olympic Glory
Among the most enthusiastic is Bryce Harper. The Philadelphia Phillies' star has been vocal about his excitement for the potential to don the Team USA jersey. "Bryce Harper has enthused about the possibility of suiting up for the United States in the 2028 Olympiad," he said, making it clear that Olympic gold is on his radar. Harper, who will be 35 years old in 2028, would bring a wealth of experience and talent to the team.
Another name generating buzz is Aaron Judge. The New York Yankees' powerhouse also looks forward to representing Team USA. Like Harper, Judge has expressed his excitement at the possibility. By 2028, Judge will be 36 years old, bringing an explosive offensive track record to the table. Since turning 30, Judge has maintained an on-base plus slugging (OPS) north of 1.100 and amassed a staggering 137 homers in 363 games—a testament to his consistency and power.
The Next Generation
The rosters for the 2028 Olympics won't just feature veterans like Harper and Judge. Young talents such as Adley Rutschman, Triston Casas, Jackson Holliday, Gunnar Henderson, and Bobby Witt Jr. are also in the mix. Rutschman, who will be 30 in 2028, and Casas, who will be 28, have already showcased their abilities in Major League Baseball. Casas stands out with an impressive OPS+ of 127 and 35 homers in 181 games with the Boston Red Sox.
Meanwhile, Jackson Holliday, who is currently a 20-year-old fresh into his major league career, will be 24 by the time the Olympics roll around. Gunnar Henderson and Bobby Witt Jr., both burgeoning stars, will be 27 and 28 respectively. Witt Jr., notably, is an MVP candidate in the American League this season, emphasizing the significant impact these young players could have on the Olympic roster.
Prospects and Pitching Promises
The excitement isn't limited to established MLB stars and promising young hitters. Top prospects like James Wood and Paul Skenes are also part of the conversation. Wood, currently 21, is a top-10 overall prospect in the high minors, poised to make a significant impact soon. By 2028, he would add young blood to a potentially dynamic Team USA roster.
Paul Skenes, often touted as the most hyped pitching prospect since Stephen Strasburg, will be 26 in 2028. His presence on the mound could be a game-changer for Team USA, providing top-notch pitching depth, essential for any team looking to clinch the gold.
As the countdown to the Los Angeles Olympics progresses, the anticipation grows for both players and fans alike. With the possibility of Major League Baseball's best talent competing on an international stage, the 2028 Games promise to be a monumental event for both the sport and its followers worldwide.