The anticipation for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles is already building, especially within the baseball community. This historic event is poised to be a significant moment for the sport, as Major League Baseball (MLB) stars might get the unprecedented opportunity to participate in the Games for the first time. This potential change comes after baseball’s absence from the recently concluded Paris Summer Olympics, making its return in 2028 a highly anticipated affair.
Among the MLB stars showing excitement towards the possibility of playing in the Olympics are Bryce Harper and Aaron Judge. Harper, who will be 35 years old in 2028, has already expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Bryce Harper has enthused about the possibility of suiting up for the United States in the 2028 Olympiad." Known for his passion and dedication on the field, Harper's potential inclusion would be a significant boost for Team USA.
Aaron Judge, who will be 36 years old by the time the 2028 Olympics come around, has also shown his eagerness to represent Team USA. Judge has been a powerhouse in the MLB, boasting an OPS over 1.100 since his 30th birthday on April 26, 2022, and amassing an impressive 137 homers in 363 games since that milestone. His outstanding performance adds weight to the excitement surrounding his possible participation in the Olympics.
The potential lineup for Team USA in 2028 also includes a mix of seasoned stars and rising talents. Adley Rutschman will be 30 years old, Gunnar Henderson will be 27, and Riley Greene will be 27, providing a solid core of players in their prime years. Another significant inclusion could be Bobby Witt Jr., who will be 28 and is currently an MVP candidate in the American League at the age of 24. His dynamic playing style and impressive stats make him a standout choice for the national team.
Then there are the younger stars who are poised to make an impact. Jackson Holliday, who recently made his major league debut at the age of 20, will be 24 in 2028. His early entry into the majors marks him as a promising talent. James Wood, a top-10 overall prospect in the high minors who is currently 21, will be 26, potentially bringing youthful vigor and exceptional skills to the team.
Baseball's return to the Olympics also highlights some of the sport's most hyped prospects, such as Paul Skenes. Skenes, who will be 26 in 2028, is considered the most hyped pitching prospect since Stephen Strasburg. His presence could offer Team USA a formidable pitching advantage, adding depth and talent to an already impressive roster.
One of the standout young talents who could shape the future of Team USA is Triston Casas. By 2028, Casas will be 28 years old and in his prime. He has already demonstrated his prowess with an OPS+ of 127 and 35 homers in 181 games with the Boston Red Sox. His power-hitting capabilities and consistent performance make him a valuable asset for the team.
The excitement surrounding the potential participation of MLB stars in the 2028 Olympics is palpable. The possibility of seeing seasoned veterans like Bryce Harper and Aaron Judge alongside budding talents like Jackson Holliday and James Wood marks a thrilling prospect for baseball fans worldwide. As the Olympics draw nearer, the anticipation for what promises to be a historic event for the sport continues to grow, potentially setting a new standard for baseball on the international stage.