Former MLB closer thinks Tebow could be in Double-A next year

David Aardsma is on the Tim Tebow train.

The former big-league closer who spent nine years in the majors says he's pitched against Tebow in recent weeks, and doesn't think his pro baseball aspirations are anything to laugh about.

"When I walked away, as a pitcher, I was pretty impressed," said Aardsma, who saved 69 games for the Seattle Mariners from 2009-10. "He needs to see a lot more pitching and understand what the pitcher is watching and seeing from him and adjusting. That's not something you know until you're in it."

Tebow, 29, was selected 25th overall in the 2010 NFL Draft. In three seasons divided between the New York Jets and Denver Broncos, he was awful, leading to his eventual release.

Now he's trying his hand at professional baseball in an attempt to make a career out of it.

"I'd get him to instructs (instructional league), work his butt and get him to play winter league," Aardsma added. "Get him on the field every day, facing different pitchers. I would not be surprised if he's in Double-A next year. I'd put the talent there right now."

At any rate, a professional club could very well offer Tebow a contract regardless of his ability, as he'd help sell tickets for a minor-league team.