The dynamic NFL quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, has revealed his fascination with baseball and the possibility of playing for Major League Baseball (MLB) team, the Kansas City Royals.
Mahomes, a three-time Super Bowl champion and two-time NFL MVP, grew up in a sporting family, with his father, Pat Mahomes, being a former MLB pitcher who played for teams like the Boston Red Sox and Houston Astros.
Patrick's baseball background became more apparent when footage resurfaced of him throwing a 16-strikeout no-hitter against present MLB star Michael Kopech during high school.
In contrast to signing a contract with the Detroit Tigers following his selection in the 2014 MLB Draft, Mahomes made the decision to prioritize his college football career at Texas Tech over professional baseball.
Andy Reid, one of the most successful NFL coaches who guided the Kansas City Chiefs into three Super Bowl victories, admires the athlete under his wing.
He was a heck of a baseball player. He grew up around it. I'm sure he can play in the major leagues. I mean, he's pretty gifted
Andy Reid
However, baseball remained an integral part of Mahomes' life, teaching him valuable lessons that he carries with him as a football player.
"I learned discipline, focus, and the importance of hard work from baseball," Mahomes said in a recent interview.
MLB Dream Alive
Despite his successful NFL career, Mahomes hasn't given up on his MLB aspirations.
He even shared his dream with Kansas City Royals General Manager, Dayton Moore, during a chance encounter at the team's stadium.
"It was great to meet Patrick and hear about his passion for baseball," said Moore.
"We would definitely welcome him with open arms if he ever decided to give it a shot."
Chiefs Coach Andy Reid's Perspective
Kansas City Chiefs head coach, Andy Reid, has been supportive of Mahomes' baseball interests and even jokingly offered himself as the potential manager for the QB in the MLB.
"He'd have to take me as a manager," Reid told TIME magazine.
Balancing Football and Baseball
Mahomes, who has a young family, is unsure if he can commit to both sports at once but is open to the possibility of participating in MLB spring training during his football offseason.
"I'd love to give baseball another shot and see where it takes me," Mahomes stated.
Baseball has had a significant impact on Mahomes' career in the NFL, contributing to his agility, quick reflexes, and ability to read pitches.
"Baseball helped me develop my hand-eye coordination and quick decision-making skills," Mahomes explained.
Possible MLB Debut
If Mahomes were to make an appearance in the MLB, he would likely play as a pitcher given his baseball background and football throwing prowess.
"I'd be open to trying anything," Mahomes stated, hinting at the potential excitement of stepping on the mound once again.
By pursuing both baseball and football, Mahomes can inspire young athletes to explore various sports and passions, demonstrating that it's never too late to chase your dreams.
"My journey, marked by both football and baseball, serves as an inspiration for youngsters. I encourage them to embrace their interests and not shy away from the challenge of learning new skills."
Awaiting the Call
With the conclusion of the NFL season, excitement grows amongst spectators as they contemplate the prospect of observing Mahomes donning an MLB jersey. Numerous admirers have taken to social media to express their enthusiasm and backing for his baseball ambitions.
In high school, Mahomes was both a baseball and football star in Whitehouse, Texas. He was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the 37th round of the 2014 MLB Draft but he did not sign a contract and enrolled at Texas Tech, where he played baseball his freshman and sophomore years before giving it up to focus on being a quarterback.
Patrick Mahomes' NFL success with the Kansas City Chiefs has not dampened his enthusiasm for baseball. The MLB dream still lingers in his heart, and he remains open to the possibility of joining the Kansas City Royals. Each day brings new opportunities, and Mahomes is savoring the journey as he navigates the intersection of football and baseball.
