Rob Manfred distances MLB from LA28 chair Casey Wasserman - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Bill Shaikin

February 12, 2026

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Rob Manfred, Commissioner of Major League Baseball (MLB), has made it clear that the league's decision to participate in the 2028 Olympics will not be influenced by the ongoing controversy surrounding LA28 chairman Casey Wasserman. Despite Wasserman's ties to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, as revealed in leaked emails, Manfred emphasized that MLB's focus is on the Olympic institution rather than individual figures. The LA28 board has backed Wasserman, stating that his past actions were from over two decades ago and do not warrant his removal. Wasserman's situation has come under scrutiny after artists left his talent agency and civic leaders called for his resignation. Emails surfaced linking him to Epstein and Maxwell, but the LA28 board's investigation found no new evidence beyond what was already known. The board argued that Wasserman's leadership over the past decade outweighs his past actions, urging him to continue leading the LA28 committee. MLB sees the 2028 Olympics as a significant opportunity to boost its international appeal, particularly in Los Angeles, a global sports hub. While major league players have historically avoided participating in the Olympics due to scheduling conflicts, the league is now exploring the possibility of featuring top players in the tournament. This decision aligns with MLB's broader goal of expanding its global reach and showcasing baseball as a global sport. Manfred highlighted the unique marketing potential of hosting the Olympics on U.S.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/12/2026