Full Breakdown
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred Optimistic About Major Leaguers in 2028 Olympics
2/13/2026, 6:34:19 AM
MLB's Olympic Aspirations
Major League Baseball (MLB) Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed optimism regarding the participation of major leaguers in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Following an owners meeting, Manfred noted that while there are still issues to resolve with the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA), he believes progress is being made. “I think we’re a lot closer to there than we were the last time we talked about it,” he stated. The baseball tournament is scheduled to take place from July 13-19, 2028, at Dodger Stadium, coinciding with an extended All-Star break from July 9 to July 21.
Key Issues to Address
A critical factor in MLB players' participation hinges on reaching an agreement with the MLBPA, particularly concerning insurance coverage for player contracts during Olympic play. The United States will automatically qualify for both baseball and softball tournaments, with additional berths available to the top two nations from the Americas in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Historically, MLB has opted not to interrupt its season for Olympic participation, as seen in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where only minor leaguers represented the U.S.
Distance from Controversy
Manfred clarified that MLB's negotiations are focused on the Olympic institution rather than LA28 chairman Casey Wasserman, who has faced scrutiny due to his past associations with Jeffrey Epstein. “Our dealings are not with Casey,” Manfred remarked, emphasizing that the league's relationship is with the Olympic organization itself. Despite the controversy surrounding Wasserman, the LA28 board has expressed support for him, stating that their review found no behavior beyond what was already known.
Broader Implications for Baseball
The potential involvement of major leaguers in the Olympics is seen as a unique marketing opportunity for baseball, particularly on U.S. soil. Manfred highlighted that the Olympics could serve as a platform to elevate the sport globally, especially in a city like Los Angeles, which has a rich baseball history. He noted, “What an incredible opportunity to elevate the sport in a city where you have one of the great cathedrals of the sport.”
Criticism and Opposition
While there is enthusiasm for MLB's Olympic participation, some critics have raised concerns about the implications of high-profile players participating in the Olympics. The debate over whether the presence of star-studded teams, such as the Los Angeles Dodgers, is beneficial for the sport continues, especially in light of ongoing discussions about salary caps and revenue sharing.
Official Statements & Responses
Manfred reiterated the importance of addressing the insurance issues for players wishing to participate in the World Baseball Classic, stating, “We like that, when they say they want to play, obviously... but then to have a problem with the insurance... we recognize that.” He also acknowledged the financial challenges facing smaller market teams due to the decline of regional sports networks, which has impacted overall revenue growth for MLB.
What's Next
As MLB prepares for the 2028 Olympics, negotiations with the MLBPA are expected to commence after the opening day of the season, with the current labor agreement set to expire on December 1. The outcome of these discussions will be pivotal in determining the extent of MLB's participation in the upcoming Olympic Games.
