Tennessee Baseball Coach Discusses Strong Pitching in Win Over Virginia Tech

Head coach Josh Elander praises bullpen arms after 3-1 victory in Arlington

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Tennessee baseball head coach Josh Elander met with the media following the Vols' 3-1 win over Virginia Tech on Sunday at Globe Life Field in Arlington. Elander discussed the team's strong pitching performances, specifically from bullpen arms Mark Hindy and Brayden Krenzel. He also touched on catcher Levi Clark's improved play and the need to get more of the team's pitchers involved in the coming week.

Why it matters

Tennessee's pitching has been a key factor in the team's early-season success, and Elander's comments provide insight into how the coaching staff is managing the staff and evaluating individual performances. As the Vols look to build on their strong start, the development of the bullpen will be crucial.

The details

Elander praised the performances of relievers Mark Hindy and Brayden Krenzel, saying the team wants to "get them out there as much as we can." He also noted that they didn't get to use pitcher Bo Rhudy in the game, calling him a "really good arm" that they'll look to get more innings for in the upcoming week. Elander also highlighted catcher Levi Clark's improved play, saying he's "seeing the baseball better" and has been a positive development for the team.

  • The game against Virginia Tech took place on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

The players

Josh Elander

The head coach of the Tennessee baseball team.

Mark Hindy

A relief pitcher for the Tennessee baseball team.

Brayden Krenzel

A relief pitcher for the Tennessee baseball team.

Levi Clark

The catcher for the Tennessee baseball team.

Bo Rhudy

A pitcher for the Tennessee baseball team.

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What they’re saying

“We just need to get them out there as much as we can. Like, you know, I'm obviously happy we won today, but we didn't get Bo Rhudy in the game, right? That's a really good arm we need to get out there, and we'll get him out there pretty quick on Tuesday.”

— Josh Elander, Head Coach (rockytopinsider.com)

“So as far as specific roles, we got five games this week, so we're gonna figure out where those guys get slotted, but it's gonna change each year. I just want those guys to come in and compete. And I thought they did a really good job after we didn't do that on Friday.”

— Josh Elander, Head Coach (rockytopinsider.com)

What’s next

The Vols will look to get more of their pitchers, including Bo Rhudy, involved in the upcoming week, as they have five games scheduled.

The takeaway

Tennessee's strong pitching performances, particularly from the bullpen, have been a key factor in the team's early-season success. As the Vols look to build on their momentum, the continued development and utilization of their pitching staff will be crucial to their continued success.