Organizers of the Los Angeles Olympics are hopeful that Major League Baseball (MLB) will work alongside the NFL to ensure that top athletes from these sports compete in the 2028 Games. Casey Wasserman, president and chair of LA28, has been in regular communication with MLB commissioner Rob Manfred as both the league and the players’ union consider whether to allow participation during the ongoing 2028 baseball season, though no decision timeline has been set.
Wasserman emphasized the importance of baseball’s involvement, stating it would benefit the sport, the players, and the Olympics. He cited the recent unanimous approval for NFL players to participate in the inaugural Olympic flag football event as a positive indication, expressing hope for similar news regarding baseball.
“We are actively engaging with the commissioners,” Wasserman noted, having preemptively spoken with Manfred ahead of the NFL announcement. Players’ Union Head Tony Clark remarked that many players are eager to face off against those who have experience in international competitions like the Olympics, particularly noting interest among several star players in joining the tournament.
The challenge for baseball is substantial, given that the Olympics coincide with the regular season, necessitating significant changes to the schedule, akin to the adjustments the NHL makes for the Winter Olympics. In contrast, NFL players will likely only take a short break from training camp for their commitments.
Manfred acknowledged the complexity of the decision during a recent meeting, highlighting the logistical hurdles involved, especially concerning the timing and commitment of major league players. Historically, baseball has had a checkered Olympic presence, first appearing as a demonstration sport in 1984 and officially becoming part of the Olympics in 1992, although it has faced challenges around player participation.
Most recently, baseball returned to the Olympics in Tokyo, but restricted its player eligibility, leading to Japan’s triumph in gold. While the sport was excluded from the Paris Games, it has been reinstated for LA28, where it will be hosted at Dodger Stadium, a historic venue from the 1984 Olympics. Wasserman underscored baseball’s marketing potential linked to the Olympics, which could benefit MLB substantially.
Fan Take: This news represents a pivotal moment for baseball fans, highlighting the sport’s potential to re-engage with a global audience through the Olympics. If Major League Baseball successfully collaborates with the Olympic Committee, it could pave the way for renewed enthusiasm and significant growth in the sport, enhancing its international appeal.
