Rest easy, Seattle Seahawks fans.
Franchise quarterback Russell Wilson has indeed been traded, but not by the Seahawks and not as a football player. Wilson announced today he has been dealt from the Texas Rangers to the New York Yankees.
“While football is my passion and my livelihood, baseball remains a huge part of where I came from and who I am today,” Wilson said Wednesday via TraceMe. “I’ve learned so much on the baseball field that translates to my game physically and mentally playing Quarterback in the NFL. I thank the Rangers and their great fans for making me feel at home and a part of the family!
“While I embrace the chance to be a New York Yankee, I will forever be grateful to be a part of a world class organization like the Texas Rangers.”
Wilson, 29, appeared for one-day stints with the Rangers during spring training in 2014 and 2015 after the team selected him in the 2013 Rule 5 Draft. He’s expected to join the Yankees in their Grapefruit League camp this spring.
A standout on both the gridiron and the diamond at North Carolina State, Wilson was drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the fourth round of the 2010 MLB Draft. He joined Asheville of the South Atlantic League during the 2010-2011 seasons, batting .228 and hitting five home runs in 315 total at-bats.
Wilson was eventually released from his football scholarship with a year remaining of eligibility. He transferred to Wisconsin, where he led the Badgers to an appearance in the Rose Bowl before being selected by the Seahawks in the third round of the 2012 NFL Draft.
But Wilson can’t quite let go of his love affair with baseball. With this latest trade, he’ll be able to stay tied to the game while also fulfilling his desire to wear the Yankees famous pinstripes.
And the best part? He’s still a member of the Seahawks and an entire fan base can exhale a deep sigh of relief.
