Tennessee Baseball has officially welcomed Josh Elander as its 26th head coach, and the response from players, staff, and former Vols alike made it clear: he was the choice the program wanted all along.
The announcement came less than 72 hours after Tony Vitello accepted the managerial role with the San Francisco Giants.
When Athletic Director Danny White introduced Elander to the team for the first time, the reaction was immediate and unmistakable. Players leapt from their seats, hugging one another and cheering as Elander appeared.
“I wanted to have fun,” White said, recalling the moment.
He framed the meeting to suggest the new coach could come from outside the program, he amplified the excitement when the familiar figure of Elander turned the corner.
For Elander, the moment was unforgettable. “I can’t really even put it into words,” he said. “It’s something that I’ll never forget for the rest of my life. I can’t wait to go to battle with you guys this spring.”
The demonstration of support from current players, former Vols, and recruits underscored the strength of Tennessee’s culture.
Observers noted that such genuine, unscripted reactions are rare in coaching transitions and speak to Elander’s deep connections within the program.
Elander formally addressed the media in his introductory press conference, highlighting his gratitude, vision, and commitment to the program.
He thanked the university leadership, his coaching staff, former players, and former mentors, including Jim Schlossnagle, Dave Van Horn, and Vitello.
“To Tony Vitello, thank you for taking a chance on me and showing what it means to leave your soul in the game,” Elander said. “I hope our players always feel that way as well.”
Elander also emphasized the continuity of Tennessee Baseball’s established culture. “Any notion that I have to put my stamp on something like this now — this is an organic, sustainable culture that’s been built over a long period of time, and we truly believe in that,” he said.
The new head coach outlined three priorities for the team: recruit and develop at the highest level, prepare like professionals and compete like champions, and cultivate a love for competition.
He also emphasized trust with his players, explaining that transparent communication will be a hallmark of his tenure.
Observing Elander’s demeanor, reporters noted a mix of emotion, humor, and clarity in his presentation. His remarks reflected a balance between respecting the program’s past and projecting confidence in its future.
Elander also highlighted his family’s role in his journey.
“I think I’m a father first in everything that I do,” he said, referencing his wife and three daughters.
“Anybody that commits to play at Tennessee needs to trust that we’ll take care of them.”
Elander said he intends to remain hands-on, particularly in hitting and recruiting, while leaning on his experienced staff for support.
The season opens in four months at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, against UCLA, marking the beginning of the Elander Era.
“Here’s how I’m going to beat you,” Elander said, quoting Pat Summitt, which he keeps in his office since arriving on Rocky Top in 2017. “I’m going to outwork you.”
It’s a philosophy that has guided him through eight top-15 recruiting classes, multiple NCAA records in runs and home runs, and now into his first season as Tennessee’s head coach.
