Manfred open to MLB players competing at 2028 Olympics

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred is open to players suiting up at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

"When you're in L.A., it is an opportunity we need to think about," Manfred said Tuesday, according to Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times.

Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper is among the notable players who have endorsed MLB participation in the Olympics, calling it "something you dream about."

Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani said Monday it'd help generate new fans for the sport.

"In the Olympics especially, there will be more chances for people who normally don't watch baseball to watch (baseball)," Ohtani said, according to Dylan Hernandez of the Los Angeles Times. "In that sense, I think it's something that's very important for baseball."

Baseball was dropped from the Olympics following the Tokyo Games, but it's expected to return in 2028.

MLB players have been able to participate in the World Baseball Classic on five occasions. The next edition of the WBC will be held in 2026.