Vols Promote Josh Elander to Replace Tony Vitello

By Matt Moscona

Tennessee has named Josh Elander as its new head baseball coach. He replaces Tony Vitello who was hired this week as the manager of the San Francisco Giants.

Elander has spent the last eight seasons on the Vols staff as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator.

The New 𝐄ra.

Josh Elander takes the reigns as the 26th head coach in Tennessee Baseball history. pic.twitter.com/d9PNiZQ3MD

— Tennessee Baseball (@Vol_Baseball) October 25, 2025

“From the outset of this national search, Josh emerged as the undeniable top choice,” said athletics director Danny White. “His relentless commitment has helped transform Tennessee baseball into a powerhouse, and we are proud to have him as our next head coach on Rocky Top. His influence inspires excellence in every aspect of our program and we look forward to continuing our quest for championships on the diamond under Josh’s guidance!”

Prior to joining Vitello’s staff in 2018, Elander served as a student assistant at TCU in 2016 and a volunteer assistant at Arkansas in 2017.

Elander played for the Horned Frogs before being drafted in 2012 by the Atlanta Braves. He spent four seasons in the Braves and Diamondbacks organizations.

Vitello won 72 percent of his games with the Vols, including the program’s first national title in 2024. He becomes the first college coach in history to make the jump from college to become an MLB manager.