Josh Elander was announced as the next Tennessee baseball coach on Oct. 25.
The Vols associate head coach and recruiting coordinator was the choice for AD Danny White after a quick coaching search.
Here is what Tennessee commitments had to say about Elander’s hire in text messages and direct messages on X:
Dylan Seward, 2027 shortstop
“First off, congrats to Coach V, there’s no one more deserving. I can’t be more excited for Elander to take the reins in Knoxville. There’s no doubt in my mind E will continue the winning tradition and culture that has put the Vols at the top of college baseball. VFL!”
Leo Nockley, 2027 shortstop
“I’m fired up about Coach Elander getting the job, no one deserves it more. The work he’s done over the years speaks for itself. Couldn’t be happier for him and his family, and I can’t wait to play for him.
Banks Addison, 2027 shortstop
“My relationship with Elander started in the 8th grade so I’ve known him for a while now. I have no doubt he will continue where Vitello left off and keep Rocky Top on top. Super happy for him and can’t wait for the years to come.”
Sushi Wilson, 2027 outfielder
“I’m extremely excited as I’ve had a relationship with Coach Elander since I was in 7th grade. Committing to the University of Tennessee Baseball program meant that I committed to Coach Elander just as much as Coach Vitello. His approach to hitting fits perfectly with my style and I can’t wait to get on campus and start working with him.”
Cole Koeninger, 2026 shortstop
“Super excited to have him as the new head coach. Can’t wait to see what the future holds. And Go Vols!”
Tyler Putnam, 2026 two-way
“I would say that Elander has done a phenomenal job with recruiting me throughout the years. He’s super easy to get along with and as a two-way player, the vision that Coach E has for me as a hitter has been a big confidence booster for me to continue my two-way status. I’m super pumped that E got the job and couldn’t be happier for him that he got the job because he’s done incredible work behind the scenes to be the glue of Tennessee baseball!”
Bubba Day, 2027 pitcher
“First and foremost congratulations to Coach V on making the move to the MLB, nobody better for the job! I’m super excited for Coach Elander and the staff to take over in Knoxville. I think he will do an amazing job at keeping the winning tradition alive which is something I can’t wait to be apart of. VFL!”
Cooper Burti, 2027 pitcher
“Obviously at first I was a little worried with Coach V leaving. But then looking around and just remembering my visit with all the coaches I knew that this was still the place to be. Coach Elander getting promoted was best case scenario and I’m not going anywhere. Elander is a world class coach and person along with the rest of the staff and I couldn’t be more excited . I’m a damn Vol!”
Cody Boshell, 2026 two-way
“Coach Elander has everything it takes and more to lead the Vols to another national championship. With me being committed there for almost four years, we have gotten really close. I’m thankful to have a unique relationship with a head coach. Excited to see what these next few years bring. I’m excited to get up there next weekend and celebrate with Coach E. Go Vols!”
Blake Lundy, 2027 catcher
“Pumped about Coach E getting the head job. He’s the man and i can’t wait to play under him one day.”
Brady Buenik, 2027 pitcher
“Tennessee has my full commitment, and I’m really excited about Coach Elander being named the head coach. He’s been a huge part of the program as the associate head coach and recruiting coordinator, and I’ve seen how much he cares about the team and us recruits. When I visited, I loved the entire staff, and Coach Elander and what they’re doing with the program. I hope we can keep the whole staff together and win some more championships. I can’t wait to get to campus in two years ! VFL”
Jayden Pearl, 2027 outfielder
“I think it was we all want and expected. Nobody more deserving to have the torch passed to than Coach E!”
Mike Wilson covers University of Tennessee athletics. Email him at michael.wilson@knoxnews.com and follow him on X @ByMikeWilson. If you enjoy Mike’s coverage, consider a digital subscription that will allow you access to all of it.
