Alex Rodriguez Reveals He Once Told a 10-Year-Old Patrick Mahomes to Quit Football

During a lively appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, legendary baseball star Alex Rodriguez shared a fascinating story about his early encounter with NFL superstar Patrick Mahomes. The conversation, which touched on football, baseball, and Rodriguez’s personal journey, revealed a moment that could have changed the course of sports history.

The Advice That Could Have Changed Everything

As the show kicked off, Jimmy Fallon asked Rodriguez about his own experience playing football. Rodriguez reminisced about his days as a high school quarterback, but explained how his Dominican heritage and his mother’s guidance ultimately led him to focus on baseball. “Football was great, but my mom seriously convinced me… you can make a living with baseball,” Rodriguez said.

Fallon then surprised Rodriguez with a childhood photo, asking him to identify the boy in the picture. Rodriguez revealed, to the audience’s amazement, that the child was none other than Patrick Mahomes Jr., now one of the NFL’s brightest stars.

Rodriguez recounted his days as a teammate of Patrick Mahomes Sr., who played for the Mets and in Texas. Young Patrick, just ten years old at the time, would spend his days around the batting cages, always eager to learn. “Every day, he would ask me, ‘Can you give me one piece of advice?’” Rodriguez recalled.

On the last day, Rodriguez finally gave Mahomes his advice: “I know you like baseball, and I know you like football, but trust me when I say this—baseball is where the money is. Football’s just for fun, but you’re gonna make your money in baseball like your dad and I.” The audience erupted in laughter as Rodriguez admitted, “I’m glad he didn’t take my advice!” Fallon quipped, “You told Patrick Mahomes not to play football! Look at him now. He’s the most winning quarterback in football.”

Reflections on Baseball’s Evolution

The conversation shifted to the state of baseball today, with Rodriguez praising Commissioner Rob Manfred’s efforts to modernize the game. He noted changes such as larger bases and shorter game times, predicting that the current World Series would be the most watched in history thanks to international interest from Canada, the US, and Japan.

Rodriguez also marveled at Shohei Ohtani’s unprecedented abilities, calling him a “unicorn” and comparing him to legends like Babe Ruth. “He’s the greatest baseball player I’ve ever seen with my eyes,” Rodriguez said, highlighting Ohtani’s dual talents as a pitcher and hitter.

A Heartwarming Half-Court Moment

Rodriguez shared another memorable moment from earlier in the year, when he was invited to take a half-court shot at a college basketball game. Against all odds, he made the shot, earning $10,000 for a young man whose mother was struggling to pay for college. “That was really cool,” Rodriguez said, reflecting on the impact of the gesture.

Opening Up in “Alex vs ARod”

The interview took a more personal turn as Rodriguez discussed his new three-part documentary series, “Alex vs ARod.” He described the project as an exploration of his public highs and lows, including his suspension and the loss of a Hall of Fame opportunity. Rodriguez spoke candidly about how these challenges led him to therapy and personal growth, making him a better father and person.

“I never thought I would say this… but looking back, it might be the greatest thing that ever happened to me,” Rodriguez shared. Fallon praised Rodriguez’s strength and vulnerability, noting that the documentary shows a side of Rodriguez that many have never seen.

Conclusion

Alex Rodriguez’s Tonight Show appearance was filled with laughter, nostalgia, and heartfelt reflection. From nearly steering Patrick Mahomes away from football to sharing his own journey of redemption, Rodriguez offered viewers a glimpse into the moments and choices that shape legends. His story serves as a reminder that sometimes, the best advice is the one you don’t take—and that personal growth can come from even the toughest setbacks.

“Alex vs ARod” debuts November 6th on HBO and HBO Max, promising an intimate look at the man behind the headlines.