By , Chris Bahr
Published August 09, 2016
If you awoke to the news that former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow is pursuing a career in Major League Baseball and checked your phone to make sure it wasn't April 1, you're not alone.
Tebow, who last completed a pass in the NFL during the 2012 season, hasn't played baseball regularly since his junior year of high school. The odds of a 28-year-old -- Tebow turns 29 on Sunday -- picking up a bat and ball after more than a decade and having success in the minors seem incredibly long, despite the fact that he reportedly has been training on the diamond for the past year. Therefore, the thought of him ever reaching the majors is even tougher to fathom.
No one doubts Tebow's work ethic or determination, but consider the thousands of talented baseball prospects in their primes who never sniff The Show. There are only a few Bo Jacksons and Deion Sanders. Heck, baseball even threw Michael Jordan for a curve.
However, agent Brodie Van Wagenen, co-head of CAA Baseball, insists that Tebow is serious about this career change. Here's a statement from Van Wagenen, per FOX Sports MLB Insider Ken Rosenthal:
"This may sound like a publicity stunt, but nothing could be further from the truth. I have seen Tim's workouts, and people inside and outside the industry -- scouts, executives, players and fans -- will be impressed by his talent. As an agent, I have a genuine respect for how hard it is to succeed at the game of baseball and a true admiration for those who possess the talent to play it at the Major League level. Tim's tool set is real. His physicality is unique in professional baseball. His work ethic is unprecedented, and his passion for the game is infectious. He knows the challenges that lie ahead of him given his age and experience, but he is determined to achieve his goal of playing in the Major Leagues."
And then there's this analysis from former major-league catcher Chad Moeller, who has been training Tebow:
"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. I see bat speed and power and real baseball talent. I truly believe Tim has the skill set and potential to achieve his goal of playing in the Major Leagues, and based on what I have seen over the past two months, it could happen relatively quickly."
We'll see, but it's easier to imagine Tebow behind center in the NFL again than in center field in the majors. And considering that he failed to make the Eagles' roster in training camp last year and hasn't had any offers since then, that's an awfully steep hill to climb regardless of how hard he works. But give him credit for chasing a dream, even if that's all it is.
https://www.foxnews.com/sports/agent-swears-tim-tebows-mlb-dream-isnt-a-publicity-stunt