Chicago Bulls icon Michael Jordan is undoubtedly one of the greatest athletes to have graced the court. He won six NBA championships, and was a consistent All-star. However, the lesser known fact is that MJ had called it quits on his career more than once. In 1994, the starlet retired from the NBA, only to start a career in baseball. He was on his way towards a stint in the MLB, before he eventually returned to his original sport. But how did his baseball career affect Jordan’s net worth? Let’s take a look.
Michael Jordan’s MLB record
Jordan shockingly retired in October 1994, only to pursue a career in baseball. Only 29-year-old at the time, it was a baffling sight to behold, considering the Bulls guard-forward was still in his prime. In early 1994, he signed with the Chicago White Sox, and was practicing with them regularly. When he announced his retirement, a new journey in a new sport became imminent. He then went on to play for the Birmingham Barons, the MLB minor side of the White Sox.
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In the 127 regular season games he played, he had 497 plate appearances and 436 at-bats. In addition, he made 88 hits, 17 doubles and 1 triple. All in all, he scored 46 runs. Although the statistics aren’t the best, he had the potential. Playing baseball, Jordan didn’t earn the highest. According to reports, despite the exact numbers not being known, minor league ball players started at around $1,100 per month. Thus, baseball hardly did his net worth any good.
What is the current net worth of Michael Jordan?
58-year-old Jordan is a big businessman. After his eventual retirement, his Jordan brand has done wonders for him. Apart from this, he has made tons of successful investments in various brands and ventures. Added to this, he also owns sports franchises, including the Charlotte Hornets. According to Celebrity Net Worth, Jordan’s current net worth stands at around $2.2 billion. This is a massive amount; much bigger than the value of numerous NBA stars as well.
How did Scottie Pippen and Chicago Bulls fare in Michael Jordan’s absence?
On this day in 1994, the @chicagobulls retired Jordan’s jersey. #23. What an era. 🙌 pic.twitter.com/bpqgyFK9oe
— The Players’ Tribune (@PlayersTribune) November 1, 2021
Having joined the NBA in 1966, the Bulls had their best ever find in the form of ‘His Airness’ in the mid 1980s. With his effortless shot making and belligerent dunks, Jordan won seven straight scoring titles. Following Scottie Pippen’s arrival in 1987, the Bulls accumulated a group of warriors who would go on to build one of the great sporting dynasties. But after Michael left in ‘94, the squad was weakened by a considerable margin.
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In spite of suffering a setback, Pippen and co. did fairly well in MJ’s absence. Amassing a 55-27 record, they finished 2nd in the regular season. Unfortunately, they couldn’t win a quadruple of rings. Yet, ‘Pip’ had one of his best seasons, and guided the men in red to a semifinal finish. The season was remembered for Scottie and breakout rookie Toni Kukoc, before Jordan eventually returned. Again in 1996, Chicago went on to win three in a row again.
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Do you think Michael Jordan’s career in baseball was worth it? Who knows what would’ve unfolded if he had continued in the NBA. Nonetheless, it was an experience that both him and his father always desired. And it only made his return even sweeter!