Kyler Murray was selected as the 9th overall pick in the 2018 MLB Draft by the Oakland Athletics.

This standout moment came during his time at the University of Oklahoma, where he excelled in both football and baseball, creating a rare two-sport dilemma that captivated fans.

Draft Details

The Athletics chose Murray, a speedy center fielder, with their first-round selection on June 4, 2018, assigning a slot value of about $4.76 million.

He had hit .296 that season with 10 home runs and 47 RBIs, showcasing elite athleticism despite limited play behind Heisman winner Baker Mayfield in football.

A's scouting director Eric Kubota highlighted the baseball upside, even knowing Murray planned to quarterback for Oklahoma that fall.

The Tough Choice

Murray signed with Oakland for a $1.5 million bonus but returned most of it after winning the Heisman Trophy in 2018.

He then entered the 2019 NFL Draft, going No. 1 overall to the Arizona Cardinals—making history as the first player picked in the first round of both MLB and NFL drafts.

The A's placed him on the restricted list, retaining rights, and as recently as March 2026, expressed openness to a reunion now that he's an NFL free agent.

Lasting Impact

This pick sparked endless "what ifs" in baseball circles, as Murray's speed and switch-hitting talent hinted at stardom.

  • Baseball stats : .296 AVG, 10 HR, 10 SB in college.
  • Football path : Heisman win led to NFL stardom over MLB.
  • Recent buzz : Podcasts revisit it as a smart high-upside gamble, not a bust.

TL;DR: 9th overall by Oakland A's in 2018 MLB Draft—he chased football glory instead.

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