Tennessee baseball coach Tony Vitello met with the media on Thursday to discuss the Volunteers' upcoming exhibition games across the state. The Vols will take on Western Kentucky in Nashville on Friday and then face Troy in Jackson on Sunday, providing a unique opportunity to evaluate the team's progress during the fall season.

Preparing for the Future with Versatility and Depth

Catcher Competition Heats Up

The Vols have traditionally utilized a combination of catchers to keep the position fresh and allow multiple players to gain valuable experience. This year is no different, as Vitello highlighted the competition between Cannon Peebles, Stone Lawless, and Dalton Bargo, all of whom have SEC experience. The coach also praised the potential of freshmen Levi Clark and Brooks Wright, who have shown the ability to contribute both offensively and defensively behind the plate.Vitello emphasized the importance of maintaining depth and providing equal opportunities for the catchers to learn the pitching staff and stay fresh throughout the season. He acknowledged the physical demands of the position, drawing a comparison to former player Josh Elander, who played with a relentless intensity that ultimately took a toll. By utilizing a rotation, the Vols hope to set their catchers up for long-term success.

Emerging Leaders and Team Chemistry

With the departure of several key faces and personalities from last year's team, Vitello is focused on identifying the new leaders who will guide the Volunteers in 2023. He recognizes that the team's chemistry and relationships will be crucial, as these elements take time to develop.The upcoming exhibition games, as well as the community service activities planned for Saturday, will provide valuable opportunities for the players to showcase their character and demonstrate their ability to lead. Vitello is looking for individuals who can step up and help the younger players acclimate to the demands of SEC baseball.

Pitching Depth and Competitive Spirit

The Vols' pitching staff has impressed Vitello during the fall, with several newcomers and returning players standing out. Freshman Tegan Kuhns has drawn praise for his competitiveness and ability to perform in high-pressure situations, while Kirby Connell and Nic Abraham have also shown their potential.Vitello emphasized the importance of evaluating the pitchers over a larger sample size, as the upcoming exhibition games and the Fall World Series will provide a more comprehensive look at the staff. He highlighted the relentless strike-throwing of Tate Strickland and the recent strong outing by Aidan Hayse as examples of the depth and talent on the mound.

Versatility and Adaptability Across the Lineup

The Vols' roster features a mix of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, and Vitello is focused on finding the best combination of players to maximize the team's success. Positions like first base and left field are still up for grabs, with several players vying for the starting roles.Vitello praised the versatility of players like Alex Perry and Colby Bakus, who have shown the ability to contribute at multiple positions. He also highlighted the potential of freshmen like Jay Abernathy, who has impressed with his athleticism and competitive spirit.The coach emphasized the importance of players being willing to adapt and embrace whatever role the team needs them to fill, as the Vols look to build on the success of last season and contend for another SEC championship.

Navigating the Shortstop Competition

The battle for the starting shortstop position is another area of focus for the Vols, with Dean Curley and Louisville transfer Gavin Kilen both vying for the role. Vitello acknowledged the challenge of managing the situation, as only one player can start on opening day.However, the coach emphasized that the decision will be a collaborative one, involving input from the players, coaches, and scouts. The goal is to find the best combination of players that will help the team succeed, regardless of individual preferences or preconceived notions about positions.Vitello praised Curley's leadership and self-belief, noting that the sophomore has already proven himself capable of contributing at the SEC level. The coach is confident that the team will find the right solution, with the players' willingness to adapt and embrace their roles being a key factor.

Developing Versatile and Impactful Players

Throughout the article, Vitello highlighted the importance of players developing versatility and the ability to contribute in multiple ways. Whether it's at catcher, first base, or in the outfield, the Vols are looking for athletes who can excel in a variety of roles and provide value to the team.The coach praised players like Alex Perry and Colby Bakus for their willingness to embrace new positions and showcase their athleticism. He also expressed excitement about the potential of freshmen like Jay Abernathy, who has demonstrated the speed and skill to play multiple outfield positions.Vitello's emphasis on versatility and adaptability reflects the Vols' desire to build a well-rounded roster capable of withstanding the rigors of the SEC schedule. By developing players who can contribute in multiple ways, the team can create depth, flexibility, and a competitive edge that will serve them well in the pursuit of another conference title.