Professional sports are full of unusual paths, but some athletes go far beyond the norm. A select few have not only played baseball at the highest level, in MLB or the Minor Leagues, but have also pursued professional careers in other sports — whether team-based like football and basketball or individual disciplines like athletics or boxing. These unique journeys reflect exceptional physical talent and uncommon determination. Here are six iconic figures who left their mark in multiple sports with high-level performances.
| Player | Other sport played | Baseball teams (MLB/MiLB) | Teams in other sport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bo Jackson | American football (NFL) | Royals, White Sox, Angels | Los Angeles Raiders |
| Michael Jordan | Basketball (NBA) | Birmingham Barons (MiLB) | Chicago Bulls |
| Deion Sanders | American football (NFL) | Yankees, Braves, Reds, Giants | Falcons, 49ers, Cowboys, Redskins, Ravens |
| Tom Glavine | Ice hockey (NHL – drafted) | Atlanta Braves | Los Angeles Kings (draft) |
| Jim Thorpe | Athletics, football, basketball | Giants, Reds, Braves | Canton Bulldogs, Cleveland Indians, etc. |
| Brian Jordan | American football (NFL) | Cardinals, Braves, Dodgers, Rangers | Atlanta Falcons |
Player Bo Jackson, raw talent incarnate
Bo Jackson remains one of the rare athletes to have excelled at the highest level in two major American sports. In the 1980s and 1990s, he imposed his power both on football fields and baseball diamonds. His exceptional career in both major leagues amazed fans and became a defining chapter in sports history.
In baseball, Bo Jackson played for the Kansas City Royals, Chicago White Sox, and California Angels. He was part of a highly publicized professional baseball team during the same years he dominated the NFL. His explosive style and raw strength made him a spectacular yet unpredictable player.
At the same time, he wore the Los Angeles Raiders uniform in the NFL, where he dazzled with powerful runs and highlight-reel touchdowns. Jackson remains a symbol of what a supremely versatile athlete can achieve. He represents the rare fusion of explosiveness and versatility.
From baseball to basketball: Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan is best known as the greatest basketball player of all time, but he also tried his hand at baseball. After his first NBA retirement in 1993, he joined the minor leagues under contract with the Chicago White Sox. His unexpected move into the baseball world surprised the entire sports community.
Jordan played for the Birmingham Barons, a White Sox affiliate, and had modest yet respectable results. He showed real commitment to learning the fundamentals of this demanding sport. Learning the game of baseball proved to be a true challenge for someone who once dominated so easily on the court.
Despite notable improvement, he returned to the NBA in 1995, leaving behind an unusual but memorable stint. This baseball interlude remains a defining moment in his career. This unusual career choice further strengthened his legend among the public.
Player Deion Sanders, speed and spectacle
Deion Sanders was another phenomenon who made sports history with a double professional career. He played in both the NFL and MLB for several seasons, displaying unmatched speed and charisma. His flamboyant style and multisport achievements made him an icon of the 1990s.
In baseball, he suited up for the New York Yankees, Atlanta Braves, Cincinnati Reds, and San Francisco Giants. Sanders even managed to play an NFL and an MLB game on the same day. His ability to juggle both sports simultaneously remains an unmatched feat.
He notably played in the 1992 World Series with Atlanta, proving his impact at the top level. His football career was equally spectacular, earning him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. A complete and media-savvy player like no other.
Baseball and ice: Tom Glavine’s diamond decision
Before becoming one of the best pitchers in MLB, Tom Glavine faced a rare choice: pursue a professional career in baseball or hockey. Drafted by the Atlanta Braves for baseball, he was also selected by the Los Angeles Kings in the NHL. His future was torn between fastballs and frozen pucks.
He ultimately chose baseball, which proved to be a winning decision as he enjoyed a brilliant MLB career, winning the Cy Young Award and a World Series. Glavine often spoke fondly of hockey, a sport he played throughout his youth. He left behind the potential of becoming a top hockey player.
In the end, he found glory with the Braves, becoming a pitching legend. His journey illustrates the crossover potential between baseball and other pro sports. He remains one of the few to have genuinely considered the NHL while excelling in MLB.
From baseball fields to the ring: Jim Thorpe
Jim Thorpe was one of the greatest American athletes of the 20th century, excelling in multiple sports. An Olympic champion in athletics, he also played professional football, basketball, and baseball. He stands as a major figure of multisport excellence.
In baseball, Thorpe played for the New York Giants, Cincinnati Reds, and Boston Braves. While never a true MLB star, his versatility made him a unique figure in sports history. His presence in multiple professional leagues was an almost unmatched achievement.
Thorpe also played in America’s first professional basketball league. His ability to succeed across so many disciplines showed a level of athleticism rarely seen. A pioneer of modern sports and athletic mobility.
Brian Jordan, the dual-sport professional
Brian Jordan is one of the few athletes to enjoy a long professional career in both MLB and the NFL. He played safety for the Atlanta Falcons before focusing full-time on baseball. His full dedication to two distinct sports worlds is worth highlighting.
In baseball, he stood out with the Atlanta Braves as a right fielder, contributing to several playoff runs. His presence in the Braves’ baseball team coincided with a strong era for the franchise. He proved indispensable thanks to his consistency.
- Drafted in 1988 by the St. Louis Cardinals
- Left the NFL for a more sustainable MLB career
- Hit over 180 home runs in MLB
- Played more than 1,400 games in the majors
- Now works as a sports analyst and philanthropist
Brian Jordan remains one of the most successful examples of a full switch to baseball. He became a key player in a top-tier team. His career illustrates rare continuity between two demanding professional leagues.