Russell Wilson’s MLB rights still belong to the Yankees, even as he takes over as the Giants’ starting quarterback in 2025.
The dual-sport athlete never reached the majors during his baseball career, but he was good enough to earn spring training appearances with the Yankees. And who knows? With New York now his home, maybe the Yankees could use his services at second base.
Wilson’s baseball background is more substantial than many realize. He played 106 Division I games at North Carolina State, hitting .282 with five homers during his college career. He even pitched in his final season, striking out eight batters while allowing eight runs across 12.1 innings.
The Rockies selected Wilson in the fourth round (140th overall) of the 2010 MLB Draft. He spent two minor league seasons between Low-A Tri-City Dust Devils and Single-A Asheville Tourists, batting .229 with five homers and 19 stolen bases.
His baseball journey took an interesting turn during the 2013 Rule 5 Draft when the Rangers selected him in the minor-league portion. Five years later, Texas traded his rights to the Yankees, where they remain today. If Wilson ever decided to return to baseball, he’d do it in pinstripes.
Both Texas and New York invited Wilson to spring training, though his role was primarily as a motivational presence for younger players. He did get one at-bat with the Yankees during 2019 spring training, striking out against Max Fried, who was then with the Braves.
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