UPDATE: Josh Elander has been named the new head baseball coach for the Tennessee Volunteers, following a major shakeup in the coaching staff. This urgent development comes after former coach Tony Vitello accepted the position of manager for the San Francisco Giants, marking a historic first for a coach transitioning directly from college to Major League Baseball without prior professional experience.
The announcement was made just days ago, on Saturday, May 6, 2025, and comes at a crucial time for the Volunteers, who are expected to field a strong team this season. Elander, who has a long-standing connection with the Tennessee program, expressed both excitement and apprehension about taking on this new role.
In an emotional media address, Elander shared, “It was scary, just to be very honest with you. I want to be crystal clear: we’re all thrilled for Tony Vitello. What an amazing opportunity to do something that’s never been done before. His fingerprints will always be on this program.” The sentiment was felt across the team, with players erupting in celebration when they learned of Elander’s appointment.
Elander’s background in the Tennessee system has prepared him for this pivotal moment. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the future while navigating the emotional terrain of recent changes. “The emotions were crazy. I think we’ve always been trying to say, what is essential and what is not,” he stated, highlighting the commitment from the coaching staff and players to work hard during this critical period.
The urgency of this transition cannot be overstated. The Volunteers are gearing up for a competitive season, and Elander’s leadership will be vital in maintaining the program’s momentum. His immediate focus will be on implementing strategies to build a cohesive team and capitalize on the talent already present in the roster.
As Elander steps into his new role, all eyes will be on Knoxville to see how he shapes the future of the Tennessee baseball program. Fans and players alike are hopeful that this new chapter will bring continued success and excitement to the Volunteers.
What’s next? The Volunteers will soon begin their training sessions, and Elander is expected to outline his vision and plans in a press conference. The community is buzzing with anticipation as they prepare for what promises to be an exhilarating season ahead.
Stay tuned for more updates on Elander’s journey, as he aims to leave his own mark on the storied history of Tennessee baseball.
