Kyler Murray may soon face a huge career decision. The Arizona Cardinals are reportedly planning to release the star quarterback. That news has already created a lot of discussion around the league.
But football may not be his only option. A path back to baseball is suddenly back in the spotlight.
The Athletics still hold Murray’s MLB rights. That means the team could welcome him if he ever decides to leave football and return to baseball.
Kyler Murray baseball return with the Athletics
The Athletics have made their stance clear. The door is open if Murray wants to give baseball another shot.
Athletics general manager David Forst recently spoke about the situation. He said Murray and his representatives know the team would welcome him if he decides to return to baseball.
The organization drafted Murray in the 2018 MLB Draft. At the time, many believed he had real potential as a baseball player.
Murray later chose football. He went on to become the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.
Now that his future in football looks uncertain, the baseball conversation has started again.
Kyler Murray college baseball stats with Oklahoma
The last time Murray played competitive baseball was in college. He played for the Oklahoma Sooners for two seasons.
During that time he showed strong athletic ability. Murray played as an outfielder and displayed both speed and power.
Across 78 games, he posted a .261 batting average. His on base percentage was .381. His slugging percentage reached .466.
He also recorded 13 doubles and 10 home runs. Murray drove in 47 runs and stole 10 bases.
Those numbers showed that he had real talent on the baseball field.
Athletics outfield situation if Kyler Murray joins MLB
If Murray decides to return, the Athletics could find a place for him. The current outfield includes Lawrence Butler, Denzel Clarke, and Tyler Soderstrom.
There could be competition for playing time. Some analysts believe Murray could challenge for a spot in that group.
His athletic ability would give the team another dynamic player in the outfield. Speed and versatility are always valuable in baseball.
For Murray, the decision may soon come down to choosing between two professional paths. Football made him a star. But baseball still remains a real opportunity waiting for him.