Tennessee Baseball Expects Return of Key Players

Grimmer and Wright near recovery from injuries as Vols host midweek games

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Tennessee baseball coach Josh Elander said the team is close to getting back key players Blake Grimmer and Garrett Wright, who have missed time due to injuries. Grimmer, a sophomore, has been dealing with lower back soreness and has missed the first 12 games of the season. Wright, a transfer from Bowling Green, played as a defensive replacement in one game but has not yet started. The Vols are hopeful to get both players back in the lineup for their upcoming midweek games against ETSU and Oakland.

Why it matters

Grimmer and Wright are important pieces for the Tennessee baseball team, with Grimmer being one of the Vols' top power hitters and Wright bringing experience and production from his time at Bowling Green. Their returns could provide a boost to the lineup as Tennessee looks to build momentum heading into conference play.

The details

Grimmer took batting practice on back-to-back days in Texas and felt good, according to Elander. Wright was available to play in the outfield during the Texas series but did not see any game action. The Vols are hoping to get both players back in the lineup for their upcoming home games against ETSU on Tuesday and Oakland on Wednesday.

  • Grimmer has missed the first 12 games of the 2026 season.
  • Wright played as a defensive replacement against Bellarmine on Tuesday.

The players

Blake Grimmer

A sophomore who hit .318 with 4 home runs and 15 RBIs in 27 games last season. He is expected to be a key power bat in the Tennessee lineup.

Garrett Wright

A transfer from Bowling Green, where he was a two-time All-MAC selection and all-defensive team player. He hit .406 with 8 home runs and 48 RBIs last season for the Falcons.

Josh Elander

The head coach of the Tennessee baseball team.

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What they’re saying

“I think we are getting really close.”

— Josh Elander, Tennessee Baseball Head Coach (on3.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The return of Grimmer and Wright could provide a significant boost to the Tennessee baseball lineup as the team looks to build momentum heading into conference play. Their experience and production will be valuable assets for the Vols as they aim to contend in the SEC.