Reese Chapman Reflects on Season's End and Confidence in Coach Elander

CHAPEL HILL, NC – Reese Chapman experienced the pinnacle of success with Tennessee baseball, celebrating a national championship in 2024 during his sophomore year. However, the conclusion of his senior season was far from triumphant. The Vols, seeded No. 2 and holding a record of 38-22, faced a disappointing exit from the NCAA Tournament's Chapel Hill Regional, losing 5-4 to No. 4 seed VCU (38-24) on May 30. This marked the first time in the program’s history that they finished a regional without a single victory, casting a shadow over coach Josh Elander’s inaugural season as head coach.

Despite the disappointing end to the season, Chapman remains optimistic about the future of Tennessee baseball. He expressed his belief in Elander’s leadership, stating, “I mean, he wants to win just as bad as we want to win. I have full faith in this program. It’s going to be right back at the top. So I mean, that’s all Vol Nation needs to hear is that we have this guy in our corner.” Elander, who previously served as an assistant under Tony Vitello before taking over when Vitello became the manager of the San Francisco Giants in October, was a key factor in Chapman’s decision to remain with the team.

Chapman’s leadership on the field was vital throughout the season, especially during a challenging start where the team began with a 4-8 record in SEC play. Elander commended Chapman’s influence, calling him “a winner, period,” as the team navigated through ups and downs.

Chapman’s journey to return for the NCAA Tournament was notably dramatic; he suffered a facial fracture after being hit by a line drive during practice on May 18, just before the SEC Tournament. Despite missing two games, he made a quick recovery and returned to the lineup, donning a protective cage on his helmet. In his first game back against ECU, he made an impactful play by throwing out a runner at home, and in his final game, he hit a two-run home run, marking the 33rd of his career. Reflecting on Chapman’s resilience, Elander remarked, “I’m just thankful I’m sitting next to Reese Chapman.”

As the season closes, both Chapman and Elander look ahead, hopeful for a rebound in the coming years for Tennessee baseball.