Tim Tebow has reported to the New York Mets spring training camp looking more in shape and showing evidence of off-season work and training.
Tebow hit nine home runs in practice on Monday, impressing the other minor league prospects with whom he was working out. About three dozen fans showed up to watch him practice, and he took time to sign autographs and pose for pictures after practice, ESPN reported.
He also gave a news conference to answer questions about how far he intends to take his baseball efforts.
The former NFL quarterback decided to try his hand at baseball last August and played in a few instructional league games and in the Arizona Fall League.
Tebow said that he worked out with Nationals star and former Met Daniel Murphy, whom he called a friend. Murphy said Tebow has impressive power but needs more practice, ESPN reported.
Tebow is 29, and many speculate he is too old to have a significant MLB career. Still, the Mets organization sees him as a profitable addition to the roster and is already selling Tebow jerseys in the clubhouse store, according to NBC.
“I always appreciate all the support of the fans who come out to cheer me on and are supportive. It always means a lot,” Tebow said in the news conference, ESPN reported.
Tebow is an outspoken Christian, with many fans appreciating his words about his faith while others think he focuses too much on religion.
“I’ve put in the work, but [playing in the major leagues] is not just the ultimate goal," he said of playing baseball, ESPN reported. "Today"s just the next day in that process."