Just like every other MLB team, the Athletics are always open to opportunities to improve. Sometimes, it requires bringing in new faces, while other times, it requires a reunion with an old face. A’s general manager, David Forst, is open to a unique reunion with an old face: former Heisman Trophy winner, Kyle Murray.
Athletics to Reunite With Murray?
Athletics GM David Forst says the A’s are “always open” to Kyler Murray if he chooses to return to baseball (via @mlb)
The Athletics still hold Kyler’s MLB rights after drafting him 9th overall in 2018
“He and his baseball representatives know that we’re always open to him… pic.twitter.com/xxCmSkTlkZ
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 5, 2026
GM Says Door is Open
Forst made the comment on Wednesday to MLB.com that the recently released quarterback could return to the A’s organization.
“Kyler is an elite NFL quarterback, and I’m sure there are plenty of opportunities for him to continue his football career. That said, he and his baseball representatives know that we’re always open to him exploring a return to baseball with the A’s if that time ever comes.”
Murray played three seasons of college football, two of them with the Oklahoma Sooners. In his final season with the school, Murray hit ten home runs and drove in 47 runs in 51 games. That production resulted in the A’s taking Murray with the ninth-overall pick in 2018.
Left at the Altar
Unfortunately for the Athletics, Murray was also a talented quarterback. After winning the Heisman Trophy in his final college season, Murray entered the NFL draft, where he was selected first overall by the Arizona Cardinals.
Murray was left with a decision. His original plan was to pursue a baseball career and had already agreed to a contract with the Athletics. Ultimately, Murray chose to join the Cardinals and the NFL, leaving the A’s at the altar. However, he was placed on MLB’s restricted list, meaning the A’s still retain his rights should he ever decide to return to baseball.
He had some good seasons with the Cardinals, helping them reach the playoffs in 2022. However, the Cardinals will part ways with the Texas native.
Is A Reunion Realistic?
Murray is only 28 years old. There are plenty of NFL teams that could use a quarterback and would be interested in taking a chance on Murray.
Still, it would be fun to see Murray take a swing (pun intended) at a baseball career. Tim Tebow gave up football for baseball, and while he never reached the majors, he did remain relevant in the minor leagues for a few seasons.
Could the same be in Murray’s future? Time will tell, but at least we know that, for now, the door is still open.
Main Photo: Jerome Miron- Imagn Images