On March 4, 2025, the Tennessee Volunteers (Vols) achieved a remarkable 22-9 victory over the Radford Highlanders in a seven-inning, run-rule-shortened game at Lindsey Nelson Stadium in Knoxville, Tennessee. The Vols’ offensive performance was historic, as they tied an NCAA Division I record by hitting three grand slams in a single game, including two in a single inning.
Game Overview
The game began with Radford taking an early lead. In the top of the first inning, Tennessee’s starter, Nic Abraham, struggled with control, loading the bases with two singles and a walk. A ground ball resulted in a double play, allowing one run to score. However, defensive errors compounded the situation; a misplay at first base and a subsequent throwing error allowed two more runs to cross the plate, giving Radford a 3-0 lead.
Tennessee responded promptly in the bottom of the first. Shortstop Dean Curley led off with a home run to center field, narrowing the gap to 3-1. First baseman Andrew Fischer added another homer, his third of the season, bringing the score to 3-2.
The Vols’ offense exploded in the third inning. With the bases loaded, right fielder Reese Chapman hit a grand slam to right field, propelling Tennessee to a 6-3 lead. Radford countered with five unanswered runs over the next two innings, tying the game at 9-9.
The pivotal moment came in the bottom of the fifth inning. Hunter Ensley delivered an RBI double, regaining the lead for Tennessee. Catcher Stone Lawless added another run with a double in the sixth, extending the lead to 11-9.
The seventh inning saw an unprecedented offensive surge. The Vols scored 11 runs, highlighted by two grand slams. Third baseman Andrew Fischer hit a 427-foot grand slam to right field, increasing the lead to 15-9. Pinch hitter Blake Grimmer sealed the game with a walk-off grand slam, marking Tennessee’s third grand slam of the game and triggering the run-rule victory.
Pitching Contributions
Radford’s pitching staff struggled to contain Tennessee’s potent lineup. Starter Noah Arnett (0-1) absorbed the loss, while the Highlanders used multiple pitchers in an attempt to stem the offensive onslaught.
Tennessee’s bullpen, particularly sophomore left-hander Dylan Loy, provided stability. Loy entered in the fifth inning with the game tied and delivered 2.1 perfect innings, retiring all seven batters faced and recording four strikeouts. His performance earned him the win, improving his season record to 2-0.
Historical Significance
The Vols’ three grand slams tied the NCAA Division I single-game record, a feat achieved only five times previously. Notably, two of these slams occurred in the same inning, matching an NCAA record. This performance underscores Tennessee’s exceptional power-hitting capabilities early in the season.
Season Outlook
With this victory, Tennessee improved to a 12-0 record, maintaining their undefeated status. The team has demonstrated consistent offensive dominance, setting a pace that suggests they may surpass last season’s SEC record of 12 grand slams. The current total of seven grand slams through 12 games positions them favorably to challenge the NCAA Division I single-season record of 14, set by Arizona State in 2003 over 68 games.
Player Highlights
- Andrew Fischer: The junior infielder led the team with five RBIs, including two home runs and a grand slam.
- Reese Chapman: The right fielder’s grand slam in the third inning shifted the game’s momentum in favor of Tennessee.
- Hunter Ensley: The outfielder’s timely RBI double in the fifth inning was crucial in regaining the lead.
- Blake Grimmer: The redshirt freshman’s walk-off grand slam in the seventh inning concluded the game in dramatic fashion.
Coaching Perspective
Head coach Tony Vitello expressed satisfaction with the team’s resilience and offensive prowess. He highlighted the importance of maintaining focus amid defensive challenges and praised the players’ ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Looking Ahead
Tennessee’s next game is scheduled for Wednesday, March 5, 2025, against Xavier at 6 p.m. ET. The game will be streamed on SEC Network+ and the ESPN app.
Conclusion
The Tennessee Volunteers’ 22-9 victory over the Radford Highlanders was a testament to their explosive offensive capabilities and resilience. Setting an NCAA record with three grand slams in a single game, including two in one inning, the Vols showcased their potential as a formidable force in college baseball for the 2025 season.
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