The University of Tennessee has appointed Josh Elander as the 26th head coach of Tennessee baseball, following the departure of Tony Vitello who has moved to the San Francisco Giants. The quick coaching search resulted in Elander, who has been part of Tennessee’s coaching staff for eight seasons and was promoted to associate head coach in 2022, being selected for the top position. Vice Chancellor and Athletic Director Danny White praised Elander as the top choice, citing his significant role in transforming Tennessee into a national powerhouse, with multiple NCAA tournament appearances, five consecutive NCAA Super Regionals, and three College World Series trips. Under Elander's leadership, Tennessee won its first national championship in 2024, setting NCAA records with 695 home runs since 2021 and a program-record 184 homers in 2024. Elander is renowned as a top recruiter, having assembled eight top-15 recruiting classes and developed numerous players who reached Major League Baseball. His background includes playing at TCU, being drafted by the Atlanta Braves, and coaching at Arkansas and TCU. Tennessee baseball commits expressed strong support and excitement for Elander's promotion, emphasizing their confidence in his ability to maintain the program’s success and continue its winning tradition.