had a similar discussion recently - friend is perfectly OK with Hockey, but thinks they did the right thing with baseball. Huh? Never really got a good answer except that Olympics are supposed to be the best of the best.
Personally, I think letting in NBA players ruined all "team" sports. Cuba and the Caribbean nations are hurt the most by eliminating baseball, not the US. I guess there is no such thing as amateur - except maybe in US high schools.
I also don't think the IOC is so much political, as money making. They seem very aware of the TV audience, but have dismissed the internet audience. I wanted to see Seth Wescott's gold medal run and couldn't find it. Several youtube files had been taken down by the IOC. (might be up now, haven't checked in the post few days) They think curling and hockey have the wider appeal. Personally I love bobsled. luge, skeleton, various skiing events. and speed skating. Figure skating is OK.