Tebow begins minor league career as a ‘Firefly’

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Former Heisman Trophy winner, and NFL quarterback Tim Tebow will be headed to the Palmetto state to begin his minor league baseball career in April.

He’s been assigned to the Columbia Fireflies, a Class A affiliate of the New York Mets.

"No one works harder than Tim did this Spring," said Mets manager Terry Collins in an interview today with Marc Carig from Newsday.

"He was a pleasure to have around. What he wants is to improve. I'm sure he'll be a great influence on the kids in Columbia and the fans will enjoy watching him play."

"Tim Tebow will bring major excitement and national attention to the Fireflies and city of Columbia," said Fireflies President John Katz.

"Baseball fans, sports fans and Tim Tebow fans will likely come from around the southeast to see him play.

His number 15 jersey could be a best-seller.

Tebow will continue with the Mets in spring training at the team's complex in Port St. Lucie, Florida, before breaking camp during the first week of April.