Commissioner Rob Manfred announced on Tuesday that Major League Baseball (MLB) is dedicated to resolving the logistics necessary for MLB players to take part in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. An earlier meeting between MLB officials and Olympic representatives has sparked mutual interest in Olympic participation.

Manfred remarked on the 2028 Olympics, stating:

“I think that the idea of playing in L.A. in ‘28, regardless of the merits of the possibility of ongoing Olympic participation in another location, that there’s some merit to it. It’s an opportunity to market the game on a really global stage.”

MLBPA director Tony Clark echoed the sentiment, saying his team is devising a comprehensive plan.

“We do know players are interested in playing, whether it’s for Team USA or for any number of other teams around the world,” he shared. “We need to have discussions soon to determine the viability of this, but we’re hopeful.”

As it stands, the Olympics currently allow only amateurs and professional players who do not occupy a spot on the 40-man roster. The U.S. team during the 2020 Olympics comprised mostly minor-league players and a few unsigned veterans, while Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball and Korea’s league paused their seasons to let their professional players participate.

The scheduling and insurance issues are poised to be the most significant logistical hurdles. The Olympic schedule set the dates for July 15-20, which could coincide with MLB’s All-Star break. The NHL has historically paused its season for the Olympics, and MLB may encounter similar insurance disputes regarding player salaries in case of injury during the Games.

“There’s nothing more worldwide than the Olympics,” said Bryce Harper. “I think it’s important that MLB allows its players to experience that.”

Baseball was an Olympic sport from 1992 to 2008, with Cuba earning three gold medals during that time.