MLB explores expansion options as 2028 Olympic participation discussions begin

Major League Baseball enters upcoming collective bargaining negotiations with plans to expand from 30 to 32 teams. Commissioner Rob Manfred aims to decide on one new west coast and one east coast franchise location by January 2029, with Salt Lake City identified as a primary candidate. The potential expansion follows the longest period without new teams since the mid-20th century. Separately, ongoing discussions between MLB, the Players Association, and LA28 organizers seek to establish terms for major league player involvement in the 2028 Summer Olympics. Negotiations currently center on player disciplinary authority, travel accommodations, and marketing rights. Meanwhile, industry debate persists regarding the increased use of position players on the mound during lopsided contests, a trend some analysts criticize for undermining traditional gameplay expectations.

• 12:03 PMYahoo Sports — Notes: MLB expansion, position players pitching, 2028 Olympics