From Touchdowns to Homeruns? Tim Tebow Steps Up to the Plate
Tim Tebow fans may no longer be watching him from the 50-yard line, but they may be watching him hit some home runs in the near future.
The onetime NFL player and ESPN broadcaster is now taking his shot at baseball. For the past year, Tebow has been training in Arizona and Los Angeles, working on his hitting and fielding skills. He hasn't played the game for 10 years.
Tebow was an All-State high school baseball player in Florida. He hit .494 as a junior, helping his team reach the final four of the Florida state playoffs.
Tebow's football agent, Jimmy Sexton gave his full support for his client's transition to baseball, according to ABC News.
"Obviously we support Tim in his pursuit of a baseball career, as we have in all his ventures."
"Tim's athletic ability, his work ethic, his leadership and his competitiveness were evident in football and will show in baseball. Knowing Tim's passion and desire, we won't be surprised by anything he accomplishes," Sexton said.
Retired professional baseball player and World Series champion Gary Sheffield tweeted his approval of Tebow's talent on the field.
I spent time w @TimTebow in the cages recently, he's a NATURAL. I absolutley believe in his ability to play in the bigs. Tim has IT #focused
— Gary Sheffield (@garysheffield) August 9, 2016
USA Today reports that former major league catcher Chad Moeller trained Tebow at a baseball school in Scottsdale. He said the Heisman-trophy winner "has the skill set and potential to achieve his goal of playing in the major leagues."
"I am beyond impressed with Tim's athleticism and swing and it goes without saying that he has shown a high level of discipline and strong work ethic," Moeller said.
Tebow is holding a workout for Major League Baseball teams this month, where 30 teams will attend. He has been preparing for the event for more than a year.
He still plans on holding his seat at ESPN and will fulfill his broadcast obligations to the network.
