When Michael Jordan retired from the Chicago Bulls for the first time in 1994, he signed a minor-league contract with what major league baseball team?

After his initial retirement from the Chicago Bulls in 1993, basketball superstar Michael Jordan signed a minor-league contract with the Chicago White Sox. This surprising career pivot saw Jordan pursue a lifelong dream of playing professional baseball, a dream he shared with his late father. The White Sox, like the Bulls, were owned by Jerry Reinsdorf, which facilitated the move.

Jordan spent the 1994 season playing for the Birmingham Barons, the White Sox's Double-A minor league affiliate. Despite being 31 years old and having not played competitive baseball since high school, Jordan dedicated himself to the sport, often being the first to arrive at practice and the last to leave. He batted .202 with 3 home runs, 51 RBIs, and 30 stolen bases in 127 games, a respectable showing for someone so new to professional baseball at that level.

While his statistics weren't those of a budding major league star, Jordan's work ethic and commitment impressed his teammates and coaches. Many in baseball noted his significant improvement throughout the season. His time in baseball was a testament to his competitive spirit and a way to honor his father's aspiration for him. Jordan ultimately returned to the NBA with the Bulls in March 1995, leading them to three more championships.