Bubba Thompson is a name synonymous with athleticism and versatility. Known for his speed, talent, and determination, Thompson has excelled as a professional baseball player before transitioning to pursue college football. From his early days as a high school sports star to his professional career in Major League Baseball (MLB) and his current aspirations on the collegiate football field, Bubba Thompson’s story is one of grit and adaptability. This article provides an in-depth look at his life, career, and future prospects.
Early Life and Family
Bubba Thompson, born Leslie Arnold Thompson on June 9, 1998, in Mobile, Alabama, grew up in Jacksonville, Florida. A natural athlete, he displayed exceptional skills in multiple sports from a young age. Raised in a supportive household, Bubba owes much of his early success to the encouragement of his parents. He attended McGill-Toolen Catholic High School in Mobile, where he truly flourished both on the baseball diamond and the football field.
Education and High School Legacy
During his high school years, Bubba Thompson gained recognition as a dual-sport athlete. He excelled as a quarterback, leading McGill-Toolen’s football team to the Class 7A State Championship in 2015, where he passed for over 3,100 yards and 38 touchdowns. His athletic prowess was not limited to football, as he also shone on the baseball field. During his junior year, he batted .469 with 19 stolen bases, earning accolades as one of Alabama’s premier baseball talents.
Thompson’s high school years culminated in numerous awards, including the Alabama Sports Writers Association’s Player of the Year for baseball. He initially committed to Auburn University to play baseball but later switched his commitment to the University of Alabama.
Baseball Career Highlights
Draft and Early Professional Career
Bubba Thompson’s immense talent saw him selected by the Texas Rangers as the 26th overall pick in the first round of the 2017 MLB Draft. He began his professional career with the Arizona League Rangers, posting a .257 batting average in 30 games during his debut season. His success continued in 2018 with the Hickory Crawdads, where he slashed .289/.344/.446, hitting eight home runs and stealing 32 bases.
By 2019, Bubba Thompson was ranked among the top prospects in baseball. However, his season was hampered by a fractured hamate bone in his left hand, which impacted his performance. Despite this setback, he made a strong return, earning a spot in the Arizona Fall League and being named a Fall League All-Star.
Major League Debut
After overcoming the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which canceled the 2020 Minor League season, Bubba Thompson returned in 2021 with the Frisco RoughRiders. His breakout year included a .275 batting average, 16 home runs, and an impressive 25 steals. This stellar performance earned him the Rangers’ True Ranger Award.
Thompson made his MLB debut on August 4, 2022, with the Texas Rangers. During his rookie season, he showcased his speed and athletic abilities, recording 18 stolen bases in 55 games, which was the most by a Rangers rookie since 2015. He also hit his first career home run against the Houston Astros on August 30, 2022.
Post-2022 Career
While Bubba Thompson showed flashes of brilliance, he faced challenges maintaining a consistent batting average and spent much of the 2023 season in Triple-A. After brief stints with the Kansas City Royals and Cincinnati Reds, Thompson became a free agent following the 2024 MLB season.
Transition to College Football
In a surprising career pivot, Bubba Thompson announced in 2024 that he would pursue college football at the University of South Alabama as a walk-on. Drawing on his high school football experience, where he was a three-star recruit, Thompson hopes to revive his football career. With five years of eligibility remaining, he is poised to showcase his athletic versatility on the gridiron while pursuing academic opportunities.
Transitioning from professional baseball to collegiate football is no small feat, but Thompson’s background as a quarterback and his resilience as an athlete suggest he is more than capable of rising to the challenge.
Physical Attributes and Playing Style
Standing 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 197 pounds, Bubba Thompson possesses a lean and athletic build that suits both baseball and football. On the baseball field, he was known for his incredible speed, recording an average sprint speed of 30.4 feet per second, the second-fastest in MLB during 2022. On the football field, his quick decision-making and strong arm as a quarterback have been widely praised.
Net Worth and Achievements
Bubba Thompson’s net worth is estimated at $2.5 million, largely accumulated through MLB salaries and performance bonuses. His accolades include:
- Alabama Sports Writers Association’s Player of the Year for baseball.
- Fall League All-Star in 2019.
- True Ranger Award co-winner in 2021.
- Texas Rangers Minor League MVP in 2022.
Challenges and Resilience
Bubba Thompson’s career trajectory has not been without its hurdles. From injuries during his minor league years to struggles at the plate in MLB, he has faced numerous challenges. Yet, in every instance, his determination and work ethic have enabled him to bounce back stronger. His bold decision to pivot to college football underscores his unwavering commitment to pursuing excellence in whichever field he chooses.
Key Information Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Leslie Arnold “Bubba” Thompson |
| Date of Birth | June 9, 1998 |
| Birthplace | Mobile, Alabama, USA |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) |
| Weight | 197 lbs (89 kg) |
| High School | McGill-Toolen Catholic High School |
| MLB Debut | August 4, 2022 |
| MLB Teams | Texas Rangers, Cincinnati Reds |
| Net Worth | $2.5 Million |
| College | University of South Alabama (Walk-On) |
| Football Position | Quarterback |
Bubba Thompson’s Inspiring Journey
From his early stardom as a dual-sport athlete in high school to his professional baseball career and now his return to football, Bubba Thompson exemplifies resilience and adaptability. His willingness to tackle new challenges and explore diverse avenues is a testament to his unyielding spirit. Whether on the diamond or the gridiron, Thompson’s story continues to inspire athletes and fans alike.
