With the 2024 Paris Olympics wrapping up, the focus is shifting to the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. Excitingly, baseball and softball are set to return after their appearance at the 2020 Tokyo Games, but there’s a significant question on everyone’s mind: will MLB players be allowed to compete?
Currently, players on MLB’s 40-man rosters aren’t eligible for the Olympics, which has sparked discussion, particularly from Casey Wasserman, chair of the L.A. 2028 Olympic Committee and CEO of Wasserman Sports—a talent agency representing many MLB stars.
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During MLB owner’s meetings earlier this year, Wasserman urged for a change, emphasizing the unique opportunity that hosting the Olympics in L.A. presents. Baseball has a history in the Olympics, first appearing in 1992, but it was only open to amateur players until 2000. Unfortunately, MLB declined to suspend its season or release players for the Tokyo Games, which resulted in a roster of prospects and seasoned players for Team USA while Japan showcased top-level talent and took home gold.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed an open-minded approach to the situation, highlighting the potential for a strong showing in L.A. compared to future Olympics. He noted the precedent set by the NBA, where elite players participated, enhancing international recognition for the sport.
The landscape for baseball changed dramatically in 2005 when IOC President Jacques Rogge removed baseball and softball from the Olympic program, citing a lack of top-tier talent and concerns about doping controls. Since then, the need for the best athletes to compete has become even more critical for reinstatement.
For Wasserman to advocate effectively for MLB’s participation, he’ll need support from Manfred, the league’s 30 owners, and the MLB Players Association. If enough players express interest in Olympic play, the union is likely to respond positively.
Ultimately, the NBA’s global outreach through the Olympics serves as a model for baseball. Increased visibility can enhance the league’s prestige and attract a broader audience. Whether baseball remains in the Olympics post-L.A. isn’t as relevant as the immediate opportunity to demonstrate its standing as the premier baseball league worldwide.
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