MLB Players’ Participation in the 2028 Olympics
Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed a hopeful outlook regarding the participation of Major League Baseball (MLB) players in the forthcoming 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. Following an owners’ meeting held on Thursday in Palm Beach, Florida, Manfred acknowledged that while there remain issues to tackle with the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA), he believes progress is being made.
“I sense a lot of momentum towards playing in LA in 2028,”
he remarked, emphasizing that the idea of showcasing baseball on U.S. soil presents a significant marketing opportunity for the sport.
Olympic Baseball Tournament Details
The Olympics will feature a six-nation baseball tournament scheduled at Dodger Stadium from July 13 to 19, 2028, with MLB planning to implement an extended All-Star break between July 9 and July 21. The All-Star Game is expected to be hosted in San Francisco on July 11. A successful agreement with the players’ union is essential to move forward, especially concerning coverage for player contracts during the Olympic competition.
Player Interest and Union Negotiations
Manfred’s optimism comes as he noted that there appears to be increased player interest in competing at the Olympics, contrasting with the situation in 2021 when MLB did not permit players on 40-man rosters to play in the Tokyo Olympics.
Comments on Casey Wasserman and Dodgers’ Acquisitions
In addressing inquiries about Casey Wasserman, the chairman of the LA games whose reputation has faced scrutiny due to recent revelations, Manfred declined to comment specifically, stating that the league’s engagements are centered on the Olympic institution itself rather than individuals.
In other news, Manfred responded to discussions surrounding the Los Angeles Dodgers’ recent acquisition of star outfielder Kyle Tucker, adding to an already high payroll. This sparked conversations about the potential for a salary cap in future collective bargaining negotiations. He pointed out that the presence of strong teams, like the Dodgers—who have signed recent key players including Edwin Díaz—benefits the sport as a whole.
Labor Deal and Insurance Concerns
As the expiration date for the current labor deal approaches on December 1, talks about a potential new agreement are expected to commence this spring, although no definitive timeline has been established with the MLBPA.
Addressing insurance matters for players intending to join their national teams in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, Manfred acknowledged ongoing concerns surrounding policies that have led to several star players, including Francisco Lindor and Carlos Correa, missing from their rosters. He indicated that while the league desires player participation, insurance complications pose significant challenges.
Operational Changes and Future Outlook
In terms of operational changes, owners have approved a new rule mandating that first and third-base coaches remain within designated boxes to prevent them from straying into positions that could affect gameplay.
Additionally, MLB is taking proactive steps to manage local television broadcasts for at least 14 teams this season amid the decline of regional sports networks, an issue affecting the league’s revenue growth, particularly in smaller markets. On this, Manfred remains confident about the future marketability of MLB content, especially with the 2028 Olympics on the horizon.
Changes in Ownership and Partnerships
Changes in team ownership structures were also addressed, with Cincinnati Reds CEO Phil Castellini and Minnesota Twins board member Tom Pohlad marking shifts in controlling interests. The MLB executive council has also welcomed new members, with Milwaukee’s Mark Attanasio and Baltimore’s David Rubenstein taking their seats.
Lastly, MLB has extended partnerships with major corporations, including Anheuser-Busch and Comcast, reinforcing its out-of-market television broadcast offerings with the Extra Innings package.
