In the summer of 2028, the world will turn its gaze to Los Angeles as it hosts the Summer Olympics once again. The city, known for its glitz and glamour, will welcome athletes from all corners of the globe, and among the sportsmaking a high-profile return is baseball. After its absence from the Paris Summer Olympics, baseball enthusiasts have much to look forward to, including the possibility of Major League Baseball's top stars competing for glory on the international stage.
One of the highlights of the upcoming LA Olympics is the potential participation of MLB's biggest names. This excitement has prompted players like Bryce Harper and Aaron Judge to express their eagerness to represent Team USA. Harper, an electrifying talent and key player for the Philadelphia Phillies, is particularly enthusiastic about this opportunity. At the age of 35 in 2028, Harper still envisions making a significant impact. "Bryce Harper has enthused about the possibility of suiting up for the United States in the 2028 Olympiad," he has shared.
Meanwhile, Aaron Judge, the imposing slugger for the New York Yankees, is equally thrilled about the prospect. Since his 30th birthday on April 26, 2022, Judge has maintained a blistering form, boasting an OPS north of 1.100 and amassing 137 homers in just 363 games. By the time the LA Olympics arrive, Judge will be 36, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a reputation as one of the most feared hitters in the game.
The Future Stars of Team USA
The prospective Team USA roster for the 2028 Olympics includes a mix of seasoned stars and emerging talents. Adley Rutschman, the promising catcher for the Baltimore Orioles, will be 30 years old and is expected to be in his prime. Triston Casas of the Boston Red Sox, known for his 127 OPS+ and 35 homers in 181 games, will enter the Olympics at 28, ready to showcase his power-hitting prowess.
Jackson Holliday, who recently made his major league debut at the age of 20, will be just 24 when the Olympics come around, signaling a bright future ahead. Gunnar Henderson, another young star for the Orioles, will be 27, while Bobby Witt Jr., currently an MVP candidate in the American League at the age of 24, will also be 28 and looking to bring his exceptional talents to the international stage.
Riley Greene, a budding star in the Detroit Tigers organization, will be 27, adding depth to the potential Team USA lineup. James Wood, currently a top-10 overall prospect in the high minors, will be 26, projected to be a key contributor. Paul Skenes, lauded as the most hyped pitching prospect since Stephen Strasburg, will also be 26 and poised to make his mark on the global stage.
Anticipation Builds for Olympic Baseball’s Return
The inclusion of baseball in the 2028 Olympics marks a significant moment for the sport, especially considering its absence from the recent Paris Games. Fans eagerly await the chance to see their favorite MLB stars compete against the world's best players in a setting that combines national pride with the competitive spirit of the Olympics.
The return of baseball to the Olympics will not only rekindle interest in the sport globally but also provide a unique platform for MLB players to showcase their skills on an international level. For players like Bryce Harper and Aaron Judge, the 2028 Olympics offer an opportunity to etch their names into another chapter of baseball history, elevating their careers from national icons to global sports heroes.
As the countdown to the 2028 Summer Olympics continues, the excitement and anticipation for baseball’s return grow stronger. The blend of veteran prowess and emerging talent on Team USA promises a thrilling spectacle. With MLB superstars ready to don their national colors, baseball fans worldwide have plenty to look forward to in Los Angeles.