Baseball will return to the Summer Olympics in 2028 when Los Angeles hosts the world’s biggest sports event. For the first time since its last appearance in Tokyo 2020, the sport will be part of the official program. The games will take place at the famous Dodger Stadium. The most exciting part is the real possibility that active Major League Baseball (MLB) players could represent their countries and compete for the gold medal. While nothing is fully confirmed yet, signs are very positive, and this could change baseball at the Olympics forever.

The baseball tournament at the 2028 Olympics is set for July 13 to 19 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. It will feature six national teams and a total of 144 players. The United States already has a spot as the host country. The other spots will be decided through events like the 2026 World Baseball Classic (two spots from the Americas), the 2027 WBSC Premier12 (one from Asia and one from Europe/Oceania), and a final qualifying tournament in March 2028. This short six-day format fits well with MLB’s idea of extending the All-Star break so top players can join without major changes to the regular season.

In the past, MLB has not allowed its active players to take part in the Olympics. For example, in Tokyo 2020, the teams used minor league players, amateurs, and pros from other leagues—but not the biggest MLB stars. Baseball was not included in the 2024 Paris Games, but its return to the U.S. in 2028 has created new energy. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has been very positive. After an owners’ meeting in February 2026, he said there is “a lot of momentum” for participation and that he believes they will solve the remaining issues with the MLB Players Association (MLBPA).

The current plan from MLB and the LA28 organizers is to extend the All-Star break. This would let selected players compete in the Olympic tournament from July 13 to 19. The All-Star Game would stay on its usual date (possibly in cities like San Diego, San Francisco, or Las Vegas), and then the chosen players would head straight to Dodger Stadium. Manfred has called the Olympics in the U.S. a “unique marketing opportunity” for baseball worldwide. He also said many players are interested. Tony Clark, head of the MLBPA, has noted that players are excited about wearing their country’s uniform.

Many big MLB stars have publicly shared their strong desire to play. Bryce Harper said there is “nothing better than representing your country.” Mookie Betts called it “an incredible honor” and said he absolutely wants to join. Kyle Schwarber believes it would be “great for our sport” and reach more fans. Bobby Witt Jr. described it as “the coolest thing you can do.” Others like Blake Snell, Gunnar Henderson, and even Dodgers manager Dave Roberts have expressed excitement about winning an Olympic medal, saying it could be even bigger than the World Baseball Classic.

Challenges remain, mainly final approval from the MLBPA and some schedule details. However, most signs point to 2028 being the year when MLB stars finally join the Olympics. If it happens, the level of play will be much higher, baseball will grow more around the world, and many players’ dreams will come true. Fans are already looking forward to seeing the best in the world compete for gold at Dodger Stadium under the Olympic rings. The future of Olympic baseball has never looked brighter.