When Tony Vitello took over the program back in 2018, the program was at its lowest point and a laughingstock in college baseball. Six years later, he has led the program to a national championship.

​

After getting a taste of the CWS in '21 and last year, the baseball program set historical records that may or may not be matched for a long time. The program won 60 games. In addition, the batting lineup holds the privilege of having nearly half the hitters slam 20 homers or more; an impressive feat. The pitching staff held through, especially behind the arms of Zander Sechrist and Drew Beam. The bullpen gave supporting roles when it counted the most.

​

There have been a few times the team could have blew the chance of a happy ending, but through adversity, they showed they can bounce back with strong. This was on display after losses against Vanderbilt (SEC Tournament), Evansville (Super Regional) and Texas A&M (opening game of the CWS Final). Their determination was on display in the opening game of the CWS against ACC power Florida State.  

After finishing #1 after the regular season, they had to prove they can finish #1 at the very end of the college baseball season. No team had ever finish #1 after finishing #1 at the end of the season. The Vols did just that to prove any of the doubters wrong.

Congratulations to this baseball program for such a historical championship run. They may be losing key components but expect them to reload, especially with top recruiting classes coming in the next few seasons.  

​