From Diamond to Gridiron: Former MLB Top Pick Shocks Fans with Unexpected College Football Decision
When you think of a top MLB draft pick reinventing himself, you probably don’t picture a 25-year-old pitcher swapping the mound for the gridiron — especially not stepping into some of college football’s most intimidating stadiums. Yet here we are. Mason Denaburg, once a first-round pick for the Washington Nationals and a proud bearer of a 2018 MLB pedigree, has swapped the nail-biting swings and surgical recoveries of pro baseball for cleats and helmets at UCF. It’s not every day you see a pro athlete hit “retire” just to rewind and dive into the college football world at an age where most rookies are fresh-faced youngsters. But then again, history reminds us that age is just a number — think Brandon Weeden and Chris Weinke — who proved that grit and second chances carry serious weight. So, can Denaburg turn the page and make the “intimidating stadiums” his new proving grounds? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure — his story just flipped the script on what it means to adapt and overcome in sports.
A former top MLB Draft pick has announced his college football commitment on Thursday, May 8.
Mason Denaburg, a right-handed pitcher drafted in the first round by the Washington Nationals, never made it to the big leagues. Denaburg, 25, was drafted 27th overall by the 2019 World Series champions in the 2018 MLB Draft. He struggled with performance and injuries, undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2021.
The former top MLB Draft pick made it to High-A ball in 2024, but left the organization following the season. On Thursday, he announced his retirement from the game.
However, Denaburg isn’t done with sports.
Denaburg announced on Thursday that he has committed to play college football at UCF.
“I have officially retired from professional baseball. The sport gave me more than I could have ever imagined, transforming my life. Although it didn’t turn out the way I had hoped, I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. Despite enduring injuries year after year, I always took the mound and gave it my all. Life is about learning and adapting, no matter the circumstances.
“With that being said, a few months ago I decided to start training for football again. I’m excited to announce I’ll be furthering my education and career at UCF this fall.
“All glory to God and Go Knights!”
@UCF_Football pic.twitter.com/QnuDTS0RvM
— Mason Denaburg (@masondenaburg_) May 8, 2025
Denaburg will be old for a college football player, but that hasn’t stopped several notable standouts, like Brandon Weeden or Chris Weinke, from succeeding in the past.
Best of luck to Mason in the fall.
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