Josh Elander Named Tennessee Head Baseball Coach

Josh Elander was named Tennessee's head baseball coach on Oct. 25 after a three-day search, taking over for Tony Vitello, who accepted the San Francisco Giants' managerial job. Elander — a longtime Vitello assistant of eight seasons who served as associate head coach, hitting coach and recruiting coordinator — was introduced to the team in an emotional surprise announcement by AD Danny White. He signed a contract running through June 30, 2030 (a five-year deal) worth roughly $1 million per year, structured as $500,000 base and $500,000 supplemental, with performance incentives including SEC and College World Series bonuses. The contract also contains reciprocal 25% buyouts if either side leaves or fires the other without cause, differing from earlier reports that cited a 50% buyout. White praised Elander's readiness to lead, and Tennessee football coach Josh Heupel publicly welcomed and congratulated him; Elander credited Vitello’s lessons, said he plans continuity while adding his own stamp, and called the responsibility both "scary" and exciting.