MLB commissioner Rob Manfred speaks prior to Game 2 of baseball’s World Series between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers, Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, in Toronto. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Olympic Participation Confidence
TORONTO (AP) — Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred expresses growing optimism that major league players will participate in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Past Olympics and Future Plans
MLB did not allow players on 40-man rosters during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where Japan triumphed over the U.S. in the gold medal match. Plans are in discussion for an extended All-Star break to facilitate participation in the upcoming LA Games scheduled from July 14-30, pending an agreement with the players’ association and consideration of sponsor contracts.
Logistical Challenges
“I’m optimistic about it. I think owners are increasingly supportive, as long as we can manage the logistics,” Manfred stated before Game 2 of the World Series. He highlighted that the 2021 Olympics featured an 11-day baseball tournament and that LA’s format may be more condensed.
Future Olympic Participation
Participation in the 2028 Games is anticipated to be a singular occurrence, as the 2032 Olympics will take place in Brisbane, Australia. “The logistics of LA, as we have discussed, are challenging,” Manfred added, suggesting the complexity would only increase in Brisbane.
Payroll Disparities and Labor Negotiations
The focus on payroll differences was evident, particularly regarding whether the Los Angeles Dodgers securing another World Series title would lead management to propose a salary cap for upcoming labor negotiations, which will follow the current agreement ending in 2026.
Ongoing Investigations and System Integrity
Manfred mentioned that MLB is expediting investigations involving Cleveland pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, who have been placed on paid leave amid inquiries into sports betting practices. He emphasized the league’s commitment to maintaining the game’s integrity, ensuring players have access to necessary resources to address betting issues.
