Baseball and Softball: Missing in Paris, Anticipated Return in Los Angeles
As the world gears up for the Paris 2024 Olympics, the absence of baseball and softball from the roster has left many enthusiasts and athletes disappointed. Yet, the excitement is already building for their anticipated return in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. Notably, this return is stirring up significant debate and speculation within Major League Baseball (MLB).
Currently, MLB excludes players on 40-man rosters from Olympic participation. This policy has prevented some of the sport’s biggest stars from representing their countries on one of the world's most prestigious stages. However, recent developments have fans and players buzzing about a potential change.
Voices of Influence: Bryce Harper and Shohei Ohtani
Bryce Harper and Shohei Ohtani, two of the game's most revered talents, have been vocal advocates for allowing MLB players to compete in the Olympics. Their support reflects a growing sentiment among players and fans alike. The potential inclusion of MLB players in the 2028 Games would not only enhance the competition but also captivate a global audience by showcasing baseball’s elite athletes.
Aaron Judge: A Star's Aspiration
Aaron Judge, the star outfielder for the New York Yankees, has expressed his desire to don the national colors in the 2028 Olympics. Judge, currently boasting an impressive slash line of .321/.456/.691 with 41 home runs this season, is clearly at the top of his game. His performance is even more remarkable considering that in the same number of team games last year, he was hitting .300/.397/.674 with 46 home runs. Reflecting on his career achievements and future aspirations, Judge shared his thoughts:
"I'd love to play. If they give us the opportunity -- I don't know what the ruling or anything has come out about that -- but I'm all in on that. There's very few opportunities to get to do that and especially, hopefully, in the prime of my career where I can still do it and make an impact, I'd love to. I've never represented my country before, never got invited to those Team USA (camps as an amateur), never really made the cut for those. Hopefully now I can make the cut."
Judge, who will be 36 years old during the 2028 Olympics, signed a nine-year contract with the Yankees, highlighting his commitment to the team while also keeping his Olympic dreams alive. He elaborated further:
"It would be an honor to represent my country and play in that. But my main goal is what I can do here in New York and what I can do to bring a championship back here. I think especially after signing a nine-year contract, for me, priorities are New York. Maybe four years down the road, hopefully I can still make the team and get an opportunity to play. But right now for me, my focus is here."
MLB's Stance: Rob Manfred's Open-Minded Approach
The stance of MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has been a topic of much discussion. Manfred's open-mindedness towards the inclusion of MLB players in the 2028 Olympics signals a potential shift in policy. This could pave the way for a new era of international competition in baseball, akin to the model seen in other sports during major international tournaments.
There is precedent for professional baseball leagues accommodating the Olympic schedule. Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball paused its season during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, allowing its players to compete and ultimately secure a gold medal in baseball. Such examples could influence MLB's decision-making process as the conversation evolves.
A Global Stage: Looking Beyond 2028
While the focus remains on the 2028 Los Angeles Games, the horizon stretches further with Brisbane, Australia, set to host the Summer Olympics in 2032. This long-term view presents multiple opportunities for the sport to grow and for players to showcase their talents on a global stage.
As we await definitive decisions, the discussions surrounding MLB participation in the Olympics emphasize the growing importance of international competition in baseball. With the backing of influential players and a willing commissioner, the dream of MLB stars competing in the Olympics could become a reality, bringing unprecedented excitement and global attention to the sport.