Nine VFLs Selected for 2025 MLB Spring Breakout Games: A Glimpse into Tennessee’s Baseball Future
As the 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season approaches, nine former Tennessee Volunteers (VFLs) have received the exciting honor of being selected to participate in the MLB Spring Breakout games. This prestigious opportunity provides a chance for some of the best young talent in baseball to showcase their skills in front of major league scouts, managers, and team executives. The announcement of these players’ selection marks a monumental moment for Tennessee baseball and serves as a testament to the program’s growth and development under head coach Tony Vitello.
The MLB Spring Breakout games have become a major springboard for athletes looking to prove themselves before the official start of the regular season. For the VFLs, this selection represents not just their personal achievements but also the ongoing legacy of Tennessee baseball. As the Vols continue to climb the ranks of college baseball, this notable group of former players is now on the cusp of realizing their big league dreams.
Who Are the Nine VFLs Selected for the 2025 MLB Spring Breakout Games?
The nine players chosen for the MLB Spring Breakout games represent a mix of positions, from pitching to hitting, with each one having made an impact during their time at Tennessee. These athletes will be competing alongside some of the best up-and-coming talent in the MLB pipeline, each hoping to make a lasting impression as they inch closer to playing in the big leagues.
- Chase Dollander – Starting Pitcher One of the most highly touted prospects in college baseball, Chase Dollander’s electric arm and dominant performance at Tennessee have earned him a spot in the Spring Breakout games. Dollander’s ability to command a devastating fastball and slider has made him one of the most coveted pitchers in the country. A top pick in the MLB Draft, he is a rising star to watch as he prepares for the next step in his career.
- Drew Beam – Starting Pitcher Another standout pitcher from Tennessee, Drew Beam played a crucial role in the Vols’ pitching rotation. His command of multiple pitches and poise on the mound make him a dangerous arm for any opponent. Beam’s selection to the Spring Breakout games further highlights the depth and strength of Tennessee’s pitching staff, and scouts are eager to see how he performs under pressure.
- Blake Burke – First Baseman Blake Burke’s power-hitting ability was a defining feature of his tenure with the Vols. His combination of size, strength, and bat speed allowed him to consistently drive the ball out of the park. As he heads into the MLB Spring Breakout games, all eyes will be on Burke to see how he handles the jump to professional competition. His potential to be a future middle-of-the-order bat is one of the most exciting aspects of his game.
- Maui Ahuna – Shortstop Known for his smooth glove and clutch hitting, Maui Ahuna was a key leader for Tennessee’s offense. His defensive skills at shortstop, combined with his ability to hit in pressure situations, make him an intriguing prospect for major league teams. Ahuna’s selection to the Spring Breakout games is a testament to his all-around skill set, and he has the potential to quickly rise through the ranks.
- Jordan Beck – Outfielder Jordan Beck is one of the most dynamic and powerful hitters to come through Tennessee’s program in recent years. His bat speed, raw power, and ability to hit for both average and power made him a key contributor to the Vols’ lineup. Beck’s natural athleticism and strong arm in the outfield further boost his stock as a top MLB prospect, and the Spring Breakout games will give him an opportunity to further impress scouts.
- Jorel Ortega – Infielder Jorel Ortega’s leadership, defensive prowess, and bat-to-ball skills were essential components of Tennessee’s success during his time with the Vols. Ortega’s ability to play multiple infield positions, along with his consistent bat, make him a valuable utility player in the professional ranks. His selection to the Spring Breakout games is an exciting chance to see how his well-rounded skill set translates at the next level.
- Zane Denton – Third Baseman Zane Denton, with his strong defensive presence and ability to hit for power, was a cornerstone of the Tennessee lineup. His defensive consistency at third base, coupled with a swing that can generate extra-base hits, make him a player to watch in the MLB Spring Breakout games. Denton’s adaptability and hard-nosed style of play could make him a quick riser through MLB’s farm system.
- Evan Russell – Catcher Evan Russell, known for his leadership and knack for clutch hitting, played an instrumental role in Tennessee’s lineup. As a catcher, Russell brings a strong defensive skill set along with an impressive bat. His ability to manage a pitching staff and contribute offensively made him a standout at Tennessee. As he transitions to professional baseball, Russell’s work behind the plate and consistency at the plate will be major points of focus.
- Charlie Taylor – Catcher Charlie Taylor was another key player for Tennessee, known for his strong arm behind the plate and his ability to contribute offensively. Taylor’s leadership on the field and defensive acumen are key assets as he enters the MLB Spring Breakout games. Teams will be watching closely to see how Taylor handles the step up in competition, particularly with his defensive tools and potential as a catcher in professional baseball.
The Importance of the MLB Spring Breakout Games
The MLB Spring Breakout games serve as a pivotal moment for players who are looking to take the next step in their careers. For the nine VFLs selected, this opportunity provides them with the chance to showcase their skills in front of professional scouts and coaches, who will be evaluating their potential as future major leaguers.
In the world of baseball, a strong showing at the Spring Breakout games can lead to invitations to major league spring training camps or additional attention from MLB teams. It’s a crucial time for prospects to make a name for themselves, as many of them look to secure their place in professional baseball’s crowded landscape.
For Tennessee, this group of former players represents the culmination of years of hard work and development under Coach Tony Vitello. The fact that nine VFLs were selected to participate in the MLB Spring Breakout games is a reflection of the success of Tennessee’s baseball program. It also speaks volumes about the kind of talent that has been cultivated in Knoxville over recent years. Tennessee has quickly become one of the premier programs in college baseball, and this development continues to shine through in the number of players making it to the professional ranks.
What This Means for Tennessee Baseball
The selection of these nine VFLs to the 2025 MLB Spring Breakout games is a milestone for Tennessee’s baseball program. It serves as recognition for the program’s continued excellence and development of top-tier talent. Over the past few seasons, Tennessee has seen its stock rise within the college baseball world, regularly competing at the highest level and consistently sending players to the pros.
As these nine players embark on their journey to the MLB, it’s clear that Tennessee baseball’s impact will be felt for years to come. Many of these athletes will likely become the faces of major league teams in the future, continuing the legacy of excellence they helped build during their time at Tennessee.
The next step for these players will be navigating the MLB Spring Breakout games with poise and determination. Scouts, coaches, and baseball fans alike will be watching closely to see how each player performs in the high-pressure environment. For Tennessee, the success of these VFLs will only continue to enhance the reputation of the Vols’ baseball program, paving the way for future generations of talent to follow in their footsteps.