Baseball organizations weighing options for athletes' involvement in 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles
Major League Baseball (MLB) is contemplating a historic move to participate in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, a decision that would bring the sport back to the Olympic stage for the first time since 2008. However, this decision comes with a host of logistical and insurance challenges that need to be addressed.
One of the key issues is the schedule conflict, as the Olympic baseball tournament usually takes place in July, right in the heart of the MLB season. Commissioner Rob Manfred has suggested that it might be possible to schedule a break to accommodate the Olympics without altering the All-Star Game or extending the regular season[1][2].
Another concern is player availability, as MLB players have never participated in the Olympics before. This could potentially impact player fatigue and readiness for the rest of the MLB season[3]. Competitive balance could also be affected, as some teams might lose key players for a significant portion of the season[1].
Insurance considerations are also a significant factor. Participating in the Olympics could increase the risk of injury for MLB players, leading to potential insurance claims. Both MLB and teams would need to ensure adequate insurance coverage to protect against such losses[1]. Additionally, there are contractual obligations to consider, as players' contracts often include provisions related to their participation in non-MLB events[2].
However, there are potential benefits to MLB's participation in the Olympics. Tony Clark, director of the Major League Baseball Players Association, has mentioned that players are interested in playing for Team USA or other teams in the Olympics[2]. Moreover, participating in the Olympics could provide a significant marketing boost for MLB, as noted by Commissioner Manfred, helping to justify the logistical challenges[3].
The NHL has faced similar challenges in the past, having paused its season for the Olympics and dealing with insurance issues. In the 2026 Olympics, for instance, the IOC refused to cover the salary of any injured players[4]. However, the NHL has decided to let their players participate in the 2026 Olympics for the first time since 2014.
Bryce Harper, a Philadelphia Phillies star, has expressed support for MLB's participation in the Olympics, citing the worldwide appeal of the event[5]. Tony Clark has also emphasised the need for conversations about the viability of MLB participation sooner rather than later[6].
The 2028 Olympics schedule is set for July 15-20 at Dodger Stadium. If MLB decides to participate, it would mark a significant moment in the sport's history, bringing together players from around the world to compete in the heart of baseball country.
Sources: [1] https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/33602352/mlb-olympic-participation-logistics-discussed-meeting-commissioner-robert-manfred [2] https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/33531771/mlb-players-union-working-olympic-participation-plan [3] https://www.mlb.com/news/mlb-olympic-participation-would-provide-marketing-opportunity-manfred-says [4] https://www.si.com/nhl/2022/02/08/nhl-olympics-2022-salary-cap-insurance-ioa [5] https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/33548998/phillies-brce-harper-supports-mlb-olympic-participation [6] https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/33531771/mlb-players-union-working-olympic-participation-plan
- Commissioner Rob Manfred is considering scheduling a break during the 2028 season to enable Major League Baseball (MLB) participation in the Los Angeles Olympics, potentially impacting the All-Star Game and the regular season length.
- The participation of MLB players in the Olympics could lead to player fatigue and competitive imbalance, as some teams may lose key players for a significant portion of the season.
- Insurance considerations are a significant factor in MLB's Olympic decision, as both the league and teams would need to ensure adequate coverage to protect against potential injury claims and contractual obligations.
- The NHL has faced similar challenges in the past, such as insurance issues and player injuries, but has decided to let their players participate in the upcoming Olympics.
- Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper has expressed support for MLB's potential Olympic participation, citing the worldwide appeal of the event, while the Major League Baseball Players Association emphasizes the need for discussions about the viability of such participation.
