Yankees: Russell Wilson still plays baseball?

When I saw the Yankees added Russell Wilson to their Spring Training roster, I was like, who? I’m not much of an NFL fan. But this is huge!

So he’s the Seattle Seahawks quarterback who is a Super Bowl Champion. Four times in the Pro Bowl. The NFL passing leader in 2015 and 2017. The touchdown leader in 2017. Why would I not know who he is? And more so, why would he want to be a member of the Yankees? I mean, this man that has forged a fantastic NFL career.

Wilson played both sports throughout much of his amateur career. He loved baseball but made his career in football. And who can blame him for that decision? He was one of the best quarterbacks coming out of the University of Wisconson.

He was selected by the Seahawks in the third round, 75th overall pick in the 2012 draft.

But before that, Wilson played second base for the Tri-City Devils in 2010 and Asheville Tourists in 2011 as part of the Colorado Rockies organization.

The more I learn about Russell, the more I’m amazed. He wanted to go to Spring Training with the Rockies while still in college. But he was convinced to focus on football instead.

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The records I told you about are nothing. Wilson’s accomplishments are more as a man.

Wilson visits a children’s hospital once a week in Seattle and has donated countless time and money to charities all over the country.

He is the National Ambassador for the Ray Charles III diabetes association.

And now he’s a Spring Training invitee for the Yankees, who he has idolized. Wilson’s on the record saying he always wanted to wear the hallowed pinstripes.

Welcome, Russ.

I look forward to you mentoring the some of the young Yankees. The information you can impart to this team cannot be bought with money. The example you set cannot be replicated.

I look forward to you telling our blossoming players what it’s been like to be a champion on the field, but more as a man.

And them in turn telling you what it’s like to hit home runs on the biggest stage in the world in baseball as a mere child. Setting records and the stadium in the Bronx on fire in the postseason.

Next: Tyler Wade makes KATOH team

I hope you enjoy wearing our beloved uniform because you are one of our own. Thank you for all you do and welcome!