Outfielder Reese Chapman is returning to Tennessee baseball for his senior season, KnoxNews Mike Wilson first reported and Chapman confirmed to RTI Thursday.
Chapman started all 64 games for Tennessee last season, mostly in right field, where he slashed .273/.344/.523 with 13 home runs, 11 doubles and 53 RBIs. The left-handed hitter’s production was relatively similar in SEC play, hitting .262 with five home runs, four doubles and 18 RBIs.
Chapman started 32 games on Tennessee’s 2024 national championship team, mostly as a designated hitter but also occasionally in the outfield due to a couple minor injuries.
The expectation was for Chapman to be selected in the MLB Draft and for the outfielder to forego his final year of college eligibility. But Chapman surprisingly went undrafted and decided to return to Tennessee baseball for one more season.
More From RTI: Tennessee Baseball Starter Transferring to NC State
Chapman’s decision gives Tennessee’s roster a defined look for next season. Chapman, Dalton Bargo and Bowling Green commit DJ Newman were the final three players who’s status for next season was uncertain. Bargo is transferring to NC State for his senior season while Newman signed professionally with the Houston Astros.
Tennessee added a pair of outfielders out of the transfer portal in Virginia star Henry Ford and Rice two-way Blaine Brown. Walters State transfer Tyler Myatt is also capably of playing corner outfield spots while Bowling Green transfer Garrett Wright both caught and played in the outfield for the Falcons.
Ford played right field at Virginia last season giving Tennessee two power four staring right fielders on their roster. Either Ford or Chapman could slide to left field and Chapman is also capable of playing center field. A Colorado native, Chapman was a stout defender for the Vols in right field last season.
Returning Vols Chris Newstron, Jay Abernathy, Jaxon Walker and Hunter High are capable of playing in the outfield and will compete for playing time.
