Dean Curley’s 2025 Tennessee baseball preview

Dean Curley’s 2025 Tennessee Baseball Preview

As the 2025 college baseball season approaches, expectations are high for the Tennessee Volunteers, a program that has rapidly transformed into one of the nation’s elite. Under the leadership of head coach Tony Vitello, Tennessee has enjoyed tremendous success in recent years, including an appearance in the College World Series in 2021 and dominating regular-season performances in 2022 and 2023. With a mix of returning stars, exciting newcomers, and a team stacked with talent, the Vols are poised to make a run at another national title in 2025.

In this comprehensive preview, we’ll break down the 2025 Tennessee baseball team by position, highlighting key players, strengths, areas to watch, and the overall outlook for the season.

Coaching Staff

At the heart of Tennessee’s success over the past few seasons is Tony Vitello, who has built a program that now consistently competes at the highest level. Vitello, who took over the program in 2018, has been instrumental in reshaping Tennessee baseball into a national powerhouse. His recruiting ability, combined with a clear philosophy on player development and a fiery competitive spirit, has elevated the Vols to prominence.

Alongside Vitello, the coaching staff is filled with experienced assistants who focus on different aspects of the game. Josh Elander, the Vols’ hitting coach, continues to develop one of the most powerful offenses in college baseball, while Frank Anderson, the pitching coach, has shaped Tennessee’s pitching staff into one of the most formidable units in the country.

As the 2025 season begins, the stability and cohesiveness of the coaching staff will be crucial as Tennessee looks to build on its previous successes.

Offense: Power, Depth, and Versatility

One of Tennessee’s trademarks in recent years has been its explosive offense, and the 2025 team is no exception. The Vols boast a lineup loaded with power hitters, dynamic base runners, and versatile players who can impact the game in numerous ways. Tennessee has produced some of the most potent offenses in the SEC, and the 2025 season promises more of the same.

Key Returners

1. Blake Burke (1B/DH) – The anchor of Tennessee’s offense, Burke is a feared power hitter who hit .296 with 22 home runs and 72 RBIs in 2024. His ability to drive the ball to all fields and hit for both average and power makes him one of the most dangerous hitters in the country. In 2025, Burke is expected to continue being the centerpiece of the Vols’ offense.
2. Jorel Ortega (2B) – A versatile player who can play multiple positions, Ortega is a key piece in the middle of the infield and the heart of the Vols’ batting order. Known for his ability to get on base and his speed, Ortega is a threat both at the plate and on the basepaths.
3. Tanner O’Tremba (OF) – O’Tremba brings a powerful bat to the outfield and has the ability to hit for both average and power. His speed and solid defensive play make him a key contributor to the Vols’ offense and defense.
4. Evan Russell (C) – Russell has developed into one of the top catchers in the SEC, known for his power bat, leadership behind the plate, and ability to manage the pitching staff. He will play a vital role in Tennessee’s lineup and has the experience to help lead the Vols on a championship run.

Freshman and Newcomers to Watch

1. Camden Sewell (OF) – The highly-touted freshman outfielder Sewell has been turning heads in preseason practices with his combination of speed, defensive ability, and an emerging power stroke. He’s expected to make an immediate impact on both offense and defense.
2. Hunter Ensley (3B) – Ensley is another freshman expected to play a significant role in 2025. A strong defender with power potential, Ensley has the tools to contribute right away at the hot corner and in the middle of the lineup.

Tennessee’s offense in 2025 is deep, with players who can fill multiple roles in the lineup. Whether it’s launching home runs or moving runners with timely hits, the Vols’ offense should be a force to be reckoned with.

Pitching Staff: Dominant and Deep

One of the keys to Tennessee’s success in recent seasons has been its pitching staff, and the 2025 edition looks to be no different. The Vols return a number of experienced arms, led by some of the best pitchers in the nation. The pitching staff has the potential to be one of the most dominant in college baseball.

Key Returners

1. Chase Burns (RHP) – Burns is one of the top starting pitchers in the country and will be the ace of Tennessee’s staff in 2025. His fastball, which regularly touches the mid-90s, paired with a devastating slider and changeup, makes him a difficult matchup for any opponent. Burns’ ability to generate strikeouts and limit walks gives him the chance to become a legitimate first-round MLB draft pick in 2025.
2. Drew Beam (RHP) – Beam, who was one of the most consistent starters in 2024, returns as one of the leaders of Tennessee’s pitching staff. His poise on the mound and ability to keep hitters off balance make him a reliable option in the rotation. Beam’s command of his pitches will be crucial for the Vols’ success.
3. Blade Tidwell (RHP) – Tidwell, who has been a steady contributor to Tennessee’s pitching staff, enters his senior season as a leader in both performance and experience. His fastball and slider combination makes him a threat in any situation, and his ability to get key outs in high-leverage situations will be critical for Tennessee’s postseason aspirations.
4. Zane Denton (RHP) – Another key piece to the rotation, Denton has the ability to eat innings and limit damage. His low ERA and high ground-ball rate make him an essential part of Tennessee’s starting rotation.

Relief Pitchers

Tennessee’s bullpen is another strength of the team, with a number of hard-throwing pitchers who can get key outs in tight situations.

1. Seth Halvorsen (RHP) – Halvorsen, who has seen time as both a starter and reliever, will likely settle into a crucial bullpen role in 2025. His velocity and nasty slider make him a matchup nightmare in late innings.
2. Chad Dallas (RHP) – Dallas is a gritty reliever who thrives in high-pressure situations. His ability to get outs in key moments and his leadership in the bullpen will be indispensable for Tennessee.

Newcomers to Watch

1. Zachary Moon (LHP) – A freshman who has impressed during the preseason, Moon offers a unique left-handed arm that can provide Tennessee with depth out of the bullpen. His poise and pitch mix could make him a valuable contributor in tight games.
2. Cooper Hjerpe (RHP) – A transfer from another powerhouse program, Hjerpe brings a wealth of experience and a plus-fastball to Tennessee’s bullpen. His ability to provide innings in the middle of games could prove essential in Tennessee’s quest for a championship.

With a combination of elite starters and a bullpen that can shut down opponents late in games, Tennessee’s pitching staff in 2025 is poised to be a dominant force.

Defense: Strong and Reliable

While Tennessee has gained a reputation for its explosive offense and elite pitching staff, the Vols also pride themselves on their defensive play. With experienced fielders across the diamond, Tennessee has the tools to be one of the best defensive teams in the SEC.

1. Evan Russell (C) – Russell’s leadership behind the plate will be crucial in managing a talented pitching staff. His strong arm and ability to call games make him one of the top catchers in the country.
2. Jorel Ortega (2B) – Ortega’s versatility allows him to play multiple infield positions with ease. His strong defensive skills and ability to turn double plays make him a key asset to Tennessee’s defense.
3. Tanner O’Tremba (OF) – O’Tremba’s athleticism and speed make him a standout in the outfield, where he is capable of covering a lot of ground and making highlight-reel plays.

Tennessee’s defense should be strong across the board, with a good mix of experience and talent in both the infield and outfield.

Schedule and Key Games

Tennessee’s schedule in 2025 will once again feature some of the toughest teams in the nation. SEC competition remains the toughest in college baseball, and the Vols will have to face the likes of LSU, Florida, and Vanderbilt in conference play. Additionally, non-conference games against power programs will give the Vols a chance to showcase their skills on a national stage.

Key series to watch for Tennessee in 2025 include:

1. LSU (March 28-30) – A highly anticipated SEC series that will feature two of the top teams in the conference. Both teams will be fighting for positioning as the postseason looms.
2. Vanderbilt (April 18-20) – Tennessee’s rivalry with Vanderbilt is always one to watch, and this year’s series will have major implications for both teams in the SEC standings.
3. Florida (May 2-4) – Another key SEC showdown, Florida is always a tough opponent, and this series will be critical for Tennessee’s chances at a top seed in the NCAA Tournament.

Outlook for 2025

The Tennessee Volunteers enter the 2025 season as one of the most talented teams in college baseball. With a dynamic offense, a deep and dominant pitching staff, and solid defense, the Vols have all the pieces in place to make a serious run at a national title. Coach Tony Vitello has built a program that not only competes but expects to win at the highest level.

While the SEC will undoubtedly provide stiff competition throughout the season, Tennessee has the talent, depth, and experience to emerge as one of the top teams in the nation. The Vols’ goal for 2025 is clear: win a national championship. With the right mix of veteran leadership and young talent, the 2025 Tennessee baseball team has all the ingredients needed to bring home a title.

As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Tennessee as they aim to prove they are one of the best programs in college baseball. The road to Omaha is never easy, but the Vols have the potential to go all the way in 2025.