Michael Jordan Tries Baseball |
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G.O.A.T BurnoutMichael Jordan, well-known as one of the greatest basketball players of all-time, always dreamed of playing major-league baseball. And thus, in 1994, the three-time NBA champion and MVP decided to take a break from the sport to pursue his lifelong dream of baseball. It had been a tough year for Michael. Between the grind and rigors of an extended basketball season, and the recent murder of his father, Michael was burnt out and needed a new challenge. The 31 year-old basketball legend would start off with the Chicago White Sox AA minor-league affiliate team known as the Birmingham Barons. He'd be coached by future big-league manager Terry Francona. New Horizons and ChallengesWhile many saw it as a publicity stunt, Jordan was "dead serious" about baseball according to his hitting coach Walt Hriniak. He was usually the first person to arrive at practice in the morning and the last to leave. Although he was a good ball player as a kid, he had to learn to throw a ball correctly, hit different kinds of pitches, and play defense at a high level. Furthermore, he had to get used to a much less glamorous life than he was used to. Minor league baseball players don't travel on private jets or stay in luxury hotels, although Michael was able to procure a luxury bus for his teammates. Despite the vast differences between being an NBA superstar and a minor-league baseball player, Michael was reportedly an excellent teammate who would sign autographs and memorabilia for all of his starstruck teammates, and for the thousands of fans who now flocked to Birmingham to see him play baseball. Minor league baseball stadiums rarely achieve sellouts, but whether in Birmingham, or, in other stadiums, Michael's Barons always sold out.The Potential was ThereMichael's baseball career was short-lived. Although he batted a mere .202, which would be considered a very low average, he stole 30 bases and drove in 51 runs during the summer of 1994. Some of his teammates and coaches believed that Michael could have possibly progressed to the Major Leagues. We will never know, of course, but during the summer of 1994, Michael left a strong impression. According to his coach, Terry Francona, " He respected the game. I love the guy. And I don’t love the guy just in the press. I love the guy. I respect him. I appreciate how he handled everything.”Back to HoopsWith talk of an impending strike in Major League Baseball, Michael decided to return to basketball for the 1994-1995 season. He'd pick up right where he left, and would lead the Chicago Bulls to three more championships.Discussion Questions
G.O.A.T BurnoutMichael Jordan, one of the greatest basketball players of all time, had always dreamed of playing professional baseball. In 1994, after winning three NBA titles and MVP awards, he took a break from basketball to chase that dream. The year had been hard—he was worn out from the long NBA seasons, and his father had recently been murdered. Jordan needed a change. At 31, he joined the Birmingham Barons, a minor league baseball team, and was coached by future MLB manager Terry Francona. New Horizons and ChallengesMany people thought Jordan's switch to baseball was just for attention, but his coach said he was fully committed. He worked harder than anyone, showing up early and staying late. Even though he had played baseball as a kid, he had to relearn many skills. Life in the minor leagues was also very different—less money, no private jets, and basic hotels. Still, Jordan stayed humble. He was a great teammate, signed autographs, and drew huge crowds. Wherever he played, stadiums sold out just to see him. The Potential was ThereJordan didn’t play baseball for long. His batting average was only .202, which is low, but he still stole 30 bases and had 51 RBIs (runs batted in). Some believed he had the talent to make it to the Major Leagues. His coach, Terry Francona, praised him for working hard and respecting the game. Jordan made a lasting impression during his time in baseball. Back to HoopsWhen a baseball strike seemed likely in 1994, Jordan decided to return to the NBA. He came back to the Chicago Bulls and led them to three more championships, continuing his legendary basketball career. |
| Michael Jordan Language Arts Activities |
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| Michael Jordan Math Activities (Graes 5 + ) |
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