Could Tom Brady, the NFL icon, have carved a different path to greatness? The answer lies within the intriguing narrative of a young, promising baseball player drafted by the Montreal Expos in 1995, a story that intertwines with the very foundation of his legendary football career. Bradys dominance on the gridiron spanned two decades, etching his name in NFL history. Yet, a compelling what if scenario persists, a tantalizing glimpse into an alternate reality where Brady pursued a career in Major League Baseball. The tale begins in the 1995 MLB draft, a year that would forever alter the trajectory of Bradys life, even if not in the way many might expect. The Montreal Expos, recognizing Bradys raw talent and potential, selected him in the 18th round, the 507th overall pick. This decision, though seemingly insignificant at the time, would later become a fascinating footnote in the saga of one of the greatest athletes of all time. Brady, a standout catcher at Junipero Serra High School in San Mateo, California, possessed the athleticism and skills to attract the attention of professional scouts. He wasn't just a football star; he was a legitimate baseball prospect, challenging future MLB star Pat Burrell during their high school days.
Category
Details
Full Name
Thomas Edward Patrick Brady Jr.
Date of Birth
August 3, 1977
Place of Birth
San Mateo, California
High School
Junipero Serra High School
College
University of Michigan
MLB Draft
1995, 18th round, 507th overall (Montreal Expos)
NFL Career
1995, 18th round, 507th overall (Montreal Expos)
NFL Career
2000-2022 (New England Patriots, Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
Position (Baseball)
Catcher
Position (Football)
Quarterback
Pro-Football-Reference: Tom Brady
The Expos gamble, though ultimately unfulfilled in the baseball realm, speaks volumes about Bradys inherent athletic abilities. Former Expos scout John Hughes recalled the team's unusual decision to bring Brady to Candlestick Park for a workout with players, a testament to their genuine interest in the young prospect. Hughes even suggested that Brady had the potential to become one of the greatest catchers ever, a bold statement considering the trajectory of his career. While Brady ultimately chose football, accepting a scholarship to the University of Michigan and later achieving unparalleled success in the NFL, the allure of "what might have been" continues to captivate fans and collectors alike. The 2023 Bowman Draft baseball cards featuring Brady in a Montreal Expos uniform serve as a tangible reminder of this intriguing crossroads in his life. These cards are more than just collectibles; they're a piece of sports history, encapsulating a moment where two distinct sporting worlds converged. Brady's decision to forgo baseball resonates even more profoundly considering the Expos eventual relocation to Washington D.C. and rebranding as the Nationals. His retirement from football effectively closes the book on the Montreal Expos' legacy, marking him as the last active professional athlete drafted by the historic franchise. Ian Desmond, also drafted by the Expos, held this distinction before Brady's second and final retirement. The story of Tom Brady, the baseball prospect, is a fascinating counterpoint to his illustrious football career. It's a tale of potential unrealized, a path not taken, yet it adds another layer of intrigue to the already complex and captivating narrative of one of the greatest athletes of our time. Topps, recognizing the historical significance of this overlooked chapter, marketed Brady's Bowman Draft card as his first official baseball card, further cementing his connection to a sport he never professionally played. The card, depicting a young Brady in an Expos uniform, embodies the tantalizing what if that continues to fascinate fans and fuel speculation about a career that could have been. In a curious twist of fate, Bradys draft year, 1995, also marks the birth year of another prominent NFL quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. This coincidental connection underscores the cyclical nature of sports and the constant influx of new talent vying for greatness. While Mahomes established himself as a dominant force in football, Bradys brief flirtation with baseball serves as a reminder that even the most celebrated careers often involve choices and turning points that shape their ultimate destiny. The narrative of Bradys baseball potential, although largely hypothetical, enhances the already compelling story of his life and career. Its a testament to his exceptional athleticism and a reminder that even legends have alternative paths that could have led to different forms of greatness. Beyond the hypothetical scenarios and collector's items, the 1995 MLB draft selection reminds us of the human element behind the sporting icon. Tom Brady, before the Super Bowl rings and MVP awards, was a young athlete with a passion for sports, faced with a life-altering decision. The choice he made shaped not only his own destiny but also the landscape of professional football, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the game.
Tom Brady 1995 MLB Draft Montreal Expos Baseball Rookie Card 12 RC
