UPDATE: The Tennessee Volunteers have officially named Josh Elander as their new head baseball coach, following the unexpected departure of Tony Vitello to the San Francisco Giants. This decision comes as the Volunteers aim to maintain their status as a national powerhouse in college baseball.
During a press conference on May 9, 2025, Elander expressed his mixed emotions about taking on this pivotal role, calling it a “scary” thought to potentially step away from the cherished Power T logo. “When you’re looking at hey, maybe you’re not able to wear that Power T anymore, it’s a pretty scary feeling,” Elander stated, emphasizing his deep-rooted connection to the university and its baseball program.
The announcement follows a whirlwind of events surrounding Vitello, who made history as the highest-paid first-year MLB manager, making the leap from college baseball to professional management without any prior experience. His remarkable move has raised eyebrows across the sports world, making Elander’s appointment all the more urgent for the Volunteers.
Elander, who has been part of the Tennessee coaching staff, is stepping into a role that comes with high expectations. The excitement amongst players was palpable as they rallied around their new coach. “We have a genuine, rooted love for this university,” Elander added, reflecting on the unity and enthusiasm in the locker room.
The Volunteers are gearing up for a challenging season and must quickly adjust to this leadership change. With the fall training period underway, Elander is focused on steering the team back to prominence and ensuring their competitive edge in the NCAA.
As the baseball community watches closely, Tennessee fans are eager to see how Elander’s vision for the team will unfold. The Volunteers are not only looking to maintain their winning streak but also to solidify their place in college baseball history.
What happens next? Keep an eye on the Volunteers as they kick off their season under Elander’s guidance, with hopes of building on their recent successes and navigating the challenges ahead.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as Elander and the Volunteers prepare for an exciting future.
