In a bid to replicate last season’s success and clinch the title this time, the Tennessee Volunteers are gearing up for another impressive run. The team made it to the College World Series last year, only to be eliminated in the second round by eventual National Champion LSU. Despite winning 44 games and securing a 4th place finish in the SEC East, the Volunteers faced significant losses due to the draft and the transfer portal.
Photo Cred: Rocky Top Insider
Entering the season ranked 8th by Baseball America, Tennessee bid farewell to key players Chase Dollander, shortstop Maui Ahuna, and pitcher Chase Burns. Dollander was the 9th overall pick, made 17 starts in 2023, closing the season with a 4.75 ERA and 120 strikeouts. Ahuna, a consistent performer with a .312 batting average, was selected by the Giants in the fourth round. The transfer portal claimed Burns, arguably one of the most talented pitchers in the country, who finished with 18 appearances (eight starts) and a 4.25 ERA, boasting the fastest fastball in the nation.
Returners included infielders Christan Moore and Blake Burke. Both players have carried their momentum from last season, boasting above .300 batting averages and starting every game this season. Additionally, new additions from the transfer portal, such as Billy Amick from Clemson and Dalton Bargo from Missouri, have made significant contributions. Amick, a standout transfer with a .378 batting average, has secured a regular starting position. Bargo has excelled in catching and designated hitter roles, collecting ten hits in 25 at-bats.
Photo Cred: Rocky Top Insider
Pitching will see a significant shift for Tennessee this year, with Drew Beam taking the lead after an impressive 2023 season with a 9-4 record, 3.63 ERA, and 88 strikeouts. Returning pitchers include AJ Russell, a top arm with a 0.89 ERA and 47 strikeouts in 30.1 innings, and Andrew Behnke, set to take on a more prominent role this season. Freshman pitchers Matthew Dallas and Brayden Sharp will play crucial roles in the 2024 season.
