In a highly anticipated return, baseball is set to make its comeback at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. This announcement has ignited a surge of excitement among fans and players alike, particularly as Major League Baseball (MLB) is considering allowing its star athletes to participate in the Games for the first time. The sport was noticeably absent from the recently concluded Paris Summer Olympics, making its return all the more significant.
Stars Ready to Shine
Among those eagerly eyeing the opportunity to represent Team USA is Bryce Harper, who at 35 years old in 2028, remains one of baseball's most electrifying talents. Harper has openly expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "Bryce Harper has enthused about the possibility of suiting up for the United States in the 2028 Olympiad." His excitement is shared by fellow MLB star Aaron Judge, a towering presence on and off the field, who will be 36 years old when the Games commence. Judge's power at the plate has been nothing short of spectacular, boasting an OPS north of 1.100 since his 30th birthday on April 26, 2022, and a remarkable 137 homers in just 363 games.
These veterans will be complemented by a new generation of rising stars. Adley Rutschman, who will be 30, and Triston Casas, who will be 28, represent part of the future for Team USA. With an impressive OPS+ of 127 and 35 homers in 181 games for the Boston Red Sox, Casas has already shown the baseball world what he's capable of.
Young Guns Ready to Step Up
Jackson Holliday, the 20-year-old sensation who recently made his major league debut, will be 24 when the Olympics begin. Holliday, along with Gunnar Henderson, 27, and Bobby Witt Jr., who will be 28, epitomizes the youthful energy and immense potential set to be on display. Witt Jr., an MVP candidate in the American League at only 24 years old, is poised to make a significant impact.
Outfielder Riley Greene, who will be 27, is another promising talent to watch. He, alongside 21-year-old James Wood, a top-10 overall prospect currently in the high minors, adds depth and explosive potential to the roster. Wood's development over the next five years will be crucial for Team USA's ambitions.
The Pitching Powerhouse
No Olympic baseball roster would be complete without a dominant pitching staff, and in 2028, Team USA may have one of the most hyped pitching prospects since Stephen Strasburg: Paul Skenes. At 26 years old, Skenes will be a vital component of the pitching rotation, bringing a level of anticipation and excitement that can bolster the entire team.
The blend of seasoned veterans and exciting young prospects promises to make the 2028 Summer Olympics a landmark event for baseball. As the clock ticks down to the Opening Ceremony in Los Angeles, anticipation continues to build, with fans and players alike ready to witness the return of America's pastime to the global stage.