Baseball is poised to return to the Summer Olympics, and organizers hope MLB active players as its “golden calling card” will boost the sport at the U.S.-hosted event, while MLB seeks to expand global influence.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, meeting 2028 LA Olympics officials in Atlanta this week, said, “This is a great chance to promote baseball globally. Clubs need to support it—it matters.” He recognizes baseball’s significance to fans and the Olympics’ reach.
Dubbed “America’s pastime,” baseball debuted as an exhibition sport at the 1984 LA Olympics with minor leaguers, becoming an official event in 1992. It was dropped from 2012 and 2016 Games. At the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, MLB players didn’t participate, and Japan’s star-studded team won gold—still a regret for rivals.
Its 2028 LA return puts huge pressure on the U.S. As host, it must field top players to chase gold.
With MLB’s potential involvement, the 2028 Games could mark a pivotal moment for baseball’s global growth, blending Olympic prestige with America’s beloved sport.
