On March 18, 2025, the No. 1 ranked Tennessee Volunteers faced a tough defeat against East Tennessee State University (ETSU), losing 7-6 in a nail-biting 10-inning contest at Lindsey Nelson Stadium.
The Volunteers entered the game with a perfect 20-0 record, aiming to extend their streak after sweeping the University of Florida in their previous series. Tennessee showcased an impressive performance during the Florida series, winning the first game 5-3, dominating the second 10-0, and securing a 7-4 victory in the finale. As they prepared for ETSU, the Volunteers were riding high on their strong start, bolstered by their powerful offense that had already hit 50 home runs this season, the highest in the nation.
However, the Buccaneers, who were just below the Volunteers in home runs with 47, came into the game determined to give Tennessee a run for their money. The game opened with Tennessee taking a 2-1 lead in the first inning, thanks to two unearned runs stemming from a fielding error by ETSU’s second baseman. Things got interesting in the second inning when ETSU's Tristan Curless launched a solo home run, leveling the score at 2-2.
ETSU continued to apply pressure, with Cody Miller adding a decisive two-run homer in the third inning, putting the Buccaneers ahead 4-2. Tennessee fought back, narrowing the gap to 4-3 when Gavin Kilen belted a home run to left center field in the fifth inning. But the stage was set for a thrilling climax as the Volunteers entered the eighth inning trailing 4-3.
In a dramatic turn, Tennessee's Hunter Ensley hit a two-RBI double, bringing the Volunteers to a 6-4 lead. The pitching staff’s performance was notably strong as well, with a team ERA of just 1.72 before this game.
The ninth inning, however, proved to be a rollercoaster ride. With Tennessee leading, ETSU’s Jamie Palmese crushed a two-run homer, again leveling the score at 6-6, pushing the game into extra innings. The atmosphere at Lindsey Nelson Stadium was electric as fans jumped to their feet, anticipating the conclusion of a hard-fought game.
As the game ensued into the tenth inning, ETSU's Grant Gallagher delivered the blow that would seal Tennessee’s fate with a spectacular solo home run, making it 7-6. Despite the Volunteers’ efforts to rally back, a challenge to keep their undefeated season alive, they could not capitalize on their last chances, leading to a heartbreaking loss.
This defeat was particularly painful for Tennessee, not just because it ended their perfect season but also as the team faced ongoing challenges beyond just the field. The controversy surrounding first baseman Alberto Osuna continued to loom large. Having recently suffered a setback when a judge denied his request for an additional year of eligibility, Osuna’s absence was felt by his teammates. Fans showed their solidarity by displaying murals and T-shirts at the stadium, with messages of support like “#FreeBerto,” signaling their longing for his return.
East Tennessee congressman Tim Burchett even brought attention to Osuna’s plight during a legislative speech, urging the NCAA to reconsider their decision. Support from the community flooded in, with players like infielder Dean Curley exemplifying this unity during their games. Curley notably wore a “Free Berto” shirt after contribute to a crucial win in the series against Florida.
Now with a record of 20-1, Tennessee aims to regroup and refocus as they prepare for their upcoming series against Alabama. The coaching staff will have to reiterate the importance of resilience and teamwork moving forward.
Fans and analysts alike will be keeping an eye on how the Volunteers respond to this defeat and whether they can harness their talent and collective determination to rally back. Despite this setback against ETSU, the foundation laid in previous games illustrates a team with the potential to achieve greatness this season.
