Former MLB Player Trades in Cleats for Shoulder Pads, Joins College Football Program

Former MLB Player Trades in Cleats for Shoulder Pads, Joins College Football Program

 

In a surprising move, former Major League Baseball player, Drew Robinson, has announced that he is joining the University of Texas’s football program as a walk-on player. The 29-year-old Robinson, who played for the Texas Rangers and St. Louis Cardinals, will be suiting up as a tight end for the Longhorns.

 

Robinson’s decision to trade in his baseball cleats for shoulder pads and a helmet has raised eyebrows across the sports world. However, for Robinson, the move is a chance to pursue a new passion and challenge himself in a different sport.

 

“I’ve always loved football, and I’ve always been a huge fan of the Longhorns,” Robinson said in a statement. “When I decided to retire from baseball, I knew I wanted to stay involved in sports, and football was the natural choice. I’m excited to be a part of this program and to learn from Coach Sarkisian and the rest of the coaching staff.”

 

Robinson’s journey to the football field is an unconventional one. A standout baseball player in high school, he was drafted by the Texas Rangers in the fourth round of the 2010 MLB draft. Over the course of his eight-year professional baseball career, Robinson played for several teams, including the Rangers and Cardinals, and appeared in 119 games.

 

However, after suffering a series of injuries, including a torn ACL and a broken elbow, Robinson decided to retire from baseball in 2020. He spent the next year focusing on his physical health and exploring new interests, including football.

 

“I’ve always been a fan of the game, but I never had the chance to play it competitively,” Robinson said. “When I retired from baseball, I knew I wanted to stay active and challenge myself in a new way. Football was the perfect opportunity for me to do that.”

 

Robinson’s decision to join the Longhorns’ football program has generated a lot of excitement among fans and coaches alike. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian is thrilled to have Robinson on board and believes that his athleticism and competitive drive will make him a valuable asset to the team.

 

“We’re excited to have Drew join our program,” Sarkisian said. “He’s a talented athlete with a strong work ethic, and we believe he has the potential to make a significant impact on our team. We’re looking forward to seeing him develop as a player and contribute to our success on the field.”

 

Robinson’s transition to football will not be without its challenges. He will have to learn a new set of skills and adapt to a different type of physicality. However, he is confident that his experience as a professional baseball player will serve him well in his new endeavor.

 

“Baseball and football are two different sports, but they both require a high level of athleticism and competitiveness,” Robinson said. “I’m confident that my experience as a professional baseball player will help me to make a smooth transition to football. I’m excited to learn and grow as a player, and I’m looking forward to being a part of this team.”

 

As Robinson embarks on this new chapter in his athletic career, he is aware that he will be facing a steep learning curve. However, he is eager to put in the work and prove himself as a valuable member of the Longhorns’ football team.

 

“I know it won’t be easy, but I’m willing to put in the work and do whatever it takes to succeed,” Robinson said. “I’m excited to be a part of this team and to contribute to our success on the field. I’m looking forward to this new challenge and to seeing where it takes me.”