Tennessee outfielder Hunter Ensley (9) looks back towards the field while running to home plate during a NCAA baseball game between the Tennessee Volunteers and Vanderbilt Commodores at Lindsey Nelson Stadium on May 11, 2025.
In a turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the college baseball world, oddsmakers are backing the defending national champion Tennessee Volunteers to repeat as College World Series champions—despite Vanderbilt entering the tournament as the No. 1 overall seed. It’s a bold, headline-grabbing nod to a team that refuses to go away quietly and a challenge to the perceived dominance of the Commodores. The decision by top sportsbooks has ignited debates among fans, fueled excitement heading into Omaha, and elevated an already intense in-state rivalry to new heights.
Tennessee, led by head coach Tony Vitello, enters the College World Series not as the top seed, but as the most dangerous team in the field. While the Commodores have been steady and consistent all season long, earning the coveted top seed with a 50-win season, it’s the swagger, power, and championship experience of the Vols that has Vegas leaning orange.
There’s something about this Tennessee team that makes oddsmakers take notice. Maybe it’s the memory of last year’s title run, where the Vols steamrolled through the bracket and hoisted their first national championship trophy. Maybe it’s their ability to rise to the occasion, their seasoned leadership, or the firebrand intensity with which they play. Whatever the reasoning, the betting lines speak loudly: Tennessee is the favorite to win it all.
The Volunteers have not taken a step back since last season’s triumph. In fact, one could argue they are more battle-tested this time around. They faced adversity early in the year, endured a brutal SEC schedule, and still emerged as one of the most complete teams in the country. Their lineup is loaded with power hitters who can change the game with one swing. Their pitching rotation, led by ace Chris Doyle, is capable of shutting down even the most explosive offenses. And their defense remains rock-solid, limiting mistakes and forcing teams to earn every run.
What separates Tennessee from the rest of the field, and perhaps what makes them a favorite in the eyes of Vegas, is their mental edge. This is a group of players who know what it takes to win on the biggest stage. They’ve done it before. They’ve lived it. And they carry that confidence into every inning, every pitch, and every swing of the bat. There’s no fear in their eyes—only belief.
Meanwhile, the Vanderbilt Commodores have had a nearly flawless season. Head coach Tim Corbin’s squad has been ranked at or near the top of the polls all year and boasts one of the most balanced rosters in college baseball. They have star power, depth, and a pitching staff that can go toe-to-toe with anyone. Their offense is versatile, capable of manufacturing runs and putting up crooked numbers when needed.
So why the slight from oddsmakers?
The truth is, while Vanderbilt has been dominant, they haven’t faced the same crucible of pressure that Tennessee has. They haven’t had to climb out of the trenches or battle from behind as often. In the postseason, especially in Omaha, that resilience can be the difference between going two-and-out or celebrating a dogpile on the pitcher’s mound.
