In the illustrious career of NFL legend Tom Brady, a compelling “what if” scenario echoes through the sports realm: What if he had pursued a professional baseball career instead? As Brady’s legacy in football solidifies, Fanatics has designated December 12 as “Brady Day,” celebrating this intriguing parallel universe with a special release of collectible baseball cards featuring the quarterback in a Montreal Expos uniform.
Tom Brady’s MLB Draft Journey
Drafted by the Expos:
- In the 1995 MLB Draft, the Montreal Expos made a bold move by selecting Brady with the 507th overall pick.
- Despite his commitment to play football at Michigan, the Expos saw potential in the young athlete and took a chance on him.
- Brady, caught between two sports, attended Expos batting practices, where teammates and management envisioned him as a left-handed catcher with exceptional arm strength and athleticism.
The “What If” Scenarios:
- In an alternate universe, Brady could have become one of the greatest catchers in baseball history, winning seven World Series rings and three MVP awards.
- The hypothetical scenario suggests a prolonged MLB career that contributes to the Expos’ success and potentially influences the team’s stay in Montreal.
- Kevin Malone, the Expos’ general manager at the time, expressed belief in Brady’s potential greatness as a catcher.
“Brady Day” Collectibles: A Glimpse into the Fantasy
Topps 2023 Bowman Draft Release:
- In honor of “Brady Day,” Topps unveils a special edition Tom Brady baseball card as part of the 2023 Bowman Draft.
- The collectible card features Brady adorned in a Montreal Expos uniform, offering fans a visual representation of the football icon’s baseball fantasy.
Limited-Edition Fanatics Collectibles:
- Fans and collectors can now own a piece of this imagined journey through limited-edition Fanatics collectibles, capturing the essence of Brady’s unexplored baseball career.
- The card serves as a tangible memento of the fleeting moments when Brady, a high school standout in San Mateo, California, contemplated a future in baseball.
Tom Brady’s Brief Baseball Stint
From First Baseman to Catcher:
- Brady’s baseball journey commenced as a first baseman, later transitioning to catcher during his senior season at Junipero Serra High School in San Mateo.
- Despite initial challenges, Brady adapted swiftly, showcasing his versatility both on the field and behind the plate.
- Recognized for his powerful arm, Brady’s potential as a left-handed catcher intrigued those who witnessed his prowess on the diamond.
High School Achievements:
- In his senior season, Brady earned a spot on the first-team All-West Catholic Athletic League.
- His statistical achievements included a batting average of .311 and eight home runs over two varsity seasons, hinting at the promise of a budding baseball career.
As fans indulge in the fantasy of Tom Brady’s baseball potential, “Brady Day” becomes a nostalgic celebration of the “what ifs” that could have altered the course of sports history. The limited-edition baseball card serves as a cherished reminder of a captivating chapter that might have been.