What Number Was Michael Jordan in Baseball? Answer: 45

By Emma Wilson · January 8, 2028

Michael Jordan wore jersey number 45 during his professional baseball career with the Birmingham Barons, a minor league affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, in 1994.

Why Did Michael Jordan Choose Number 45 in Baseball?

When Michael Jordan transitioned from basketball to baseball in 1994, he chose the number 45. This decision was significant for several reasons:

He had famously worn number 23 with the Chicago Bulls in the NBA.
After retiring from basketball the first time, Jordan could not reclaim number 23 in baseball, nor did he wish to carry the same legacy into a new sport.
Number 45 was the number he wore as a youth playing baseball and also the number worn by his older brother, Larry Jordan, in high school sports.

By selecting 45, Jordan symbolically started fresh while honoring personal roots in the game.

Michael Jordan's Baseball Career Overview

Jordan played one season of professional baseball with the Birmingham Barons, a Class-AA affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. His stint lasted from February to September 1994.

Key Facts About His Baseball Season

Position: Outfielder
League: Southern League (Minor League Baseball)
Games Played: 127
Batting Average: .202
Home Runs: 3
Stolen Bases: 30

Though his batting average was below league average, Jordan showed dedication, athleticism, and base-running prowess that drew attention from scouts and fans alike.

Statistic	Value
Team	Birmingham Barons (White Sox affiliate)
Season	1994
Games Played	127
At-Bats	497
Hits	100
Doubles	28
Home Runs	3
RBI	51
Stolen Bases	30
Batting Average	.202
On-Base Percentage	.282
Slugging Percentage	.266

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that while Jordan’s power and contact numbers were modest, his 30 stolen bases highlight his elite athleticism. His on-base percentage and slugging were below league averages, reflecting the challenges of adapting to professional pitching.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Despite modest stats, Jordan’s baseball season captured global media attention. It demonstrated his courage to step outside comfort and attempt mastery in a new field.

His jersey number 45 became iconic, later reused briefly when he returned to the NBA in 1995 before switching back to 23.
The “45” jersey remains a collector’s item and symbolizes Jordan’s versatility.
Documentaries like The Last Dance highlighted this chapter, reinforcing its place in sports lore.

Frequently Asked Questions About Michael Jordan's Baseball Number

What number did Michael Jordan wear in baseball?

Michael Jordan wore number 45 during his 1994 season with the Birmingham Barons in Minor League Baseball.

Why didn't Michael Jordan wear number 23 in baseball?

Although Jordan was famous for wearing 23 in the NBA, he chose 45 in baseball to start fresh and honor his brother Larry, who wore 45 in high school. It also marked a symbolic break from his basketball identity.

Did Michael Jordan play professional baseball?

Yes, Michael Jordan played one full season (1994) of professional baseball with the Birmingham Barons, a Class-AA minor league team affiliated with the Chicago White Sox.

Was Michael Jordan good at baseball?

Jordan’s baseball performance was below average statistically (.202 batting average), but his athleticism, work ethic, and 30 stolen bases stood out. He faced top-tier competition but lacked years of development, making his effort admirable though not elite.

Has any other NBA player worn number 45 because of Jordan?

While not common, some athletes have worn 45 in tribute to Jordan’s crossover appeal. Notably, MLB players like Moisés Alou wore 45 during his time with the Chicago Cubs, partly inspired by Jordan’s presence in the city’s sports culture.