Tennessee baseball takeaways from first week of fall practice before 2027 season

Tennessee baseball began its first week of fall practice ahead of the 2027 season, which starts in mid-February, as Josh Elander's second season as coach commences. The Vols have played four intrasquad scrimmages at Lindsey Nelson Stadium and have four scheduled against other programs, starting on October 11 against Troy at First Horizon Park in Nashville.

The pitching staff has shown promise, with right-hander Parker Detmers having a strong debut, allowing just one base hit in three scrimmages. He is recovering from Tommy John surgery in 2025, putting him ahead of other transfers recovering from more recent elbow surgeries. Landon Mack and Cam Appenzeller, who haven't pitched yet, are expected to have a light workload this fall after dealing with arm injuries.

Hayden Simmerson, a Clemson transfer, started the first scrimmage, striking out four batters in two innings. UC Irvine transfer Ricky Ojeda was also brought in to bolster the bullpen, throwing 2⅓ innings on October 1. Freshman Cole Koeninger made his first pitching appearance on the same day, allowing one run in three innings while striking out five. He has also played both infield and outfield positions.

Corner outfield positions are yet to be determined, with Blaine Brown's injury status uncertain. Tyler Myatt, a Cape Cod League All-Star selection during the summer, has been Tennessee's best hitter this fall and could push for a starting spot. Multiple players have appeared in the outfield, including Blake Grimmer, Sean Dunlap, Jack Dugan, AJ Curry, and Reese Chapman, who is seeking a fifth year of eligibility.