“Vols Lead NCAA with Three Baseball America First Team All-Americans” — Tennessee Baseball’s Golden Era Shines Bright in 2025
By Jackson Reid | College Baseball Analyst | June 23, 2025
The roar from Rocky Top is louder than ever as the Tennessee Volunteers baseball program continues its meteoric rise into national dominance. In a landmark moment for the program, three Vols have been named to the 2025 Baseball America First Team All-America list, making Tennessee the only school in the nation to place more than two players on the prestigious roster this season.
This rare trifecta of excellence cements Tennessee’s place not only as an SEC powerhouse but as the gold standard for collegiate baseball in 2025. The three honorees — ace pitcher Carter Malloy, slugging outfielder Jalen Reece, and defensive stalwart shortstop Nico Vargas — have all played pivotal roles in the Vols’ record-setting 48–9 season, which saw them claim the SEC Championship and secure the No. 1 overall seed heading into the NCAA Tournament.
Carter Malloy – RHP | 12-1 Record | 1.87 ERA | 138 Strikeouts
The junior right-hander out of Franklin, TN, has been virtually untouchable all season. Known for his blazing fastball and wicked slider, Malloy led the SEC in strikeouts and WHIP, commanding the mound with a poise well beyond his years. Scouts are already buzzing that he could be the first pitcher off the board in the upcoming MLB Draft.
> “Carter doesn’t just pitch — he dictates,” said head coach Tony Vitello. “He sets the tone for this team every time he steps on the mound.”
Jalen Reece – OF | .372 AVG | 23 HR | 68 RBI | 19 SB
A dynamic blend of power and speed, Reece exploded onto the national radar this season, regularly delivering jaw-dropping highlights. His ability to turn routine singles into doubles and flash leather in the outfield has made him one of the most complete players in college baseball.
> “Every time Jalen steps up to the plate, fans stop what they’re doing,” Vitello added. “He’s electric — pure energy in cleats.”
Nico Vargas – SS | .319 AVG | 11 HR | 41 RBI | .986 Fielding %
While he may not lead the team in home runs or batting average, Vargas has been the heart of the Vols’ defense, turning double plays with ballet-like grace and anchoring the infield with unmatched consistency. His leadership and defensive IQ have earned comparisons to MLB veterans.
> “He’s our field general,” said Malloy. “When Nico speaks, we listen.”
The achievement is not just individual — it’s emblematic of the culture Tony Vitello has built in Knoxville. In just seven seasons, he has transformed the Vols into a perennial national contender with a perfect blend of swagger, discipline, and player development.
With three First Team All-Americans, a deep postseason run on the horizon, and a top-five recruiting class incoming, Tennessee baseball is no longer chasing greatness — they’re setting the standard.
And as the NCAA tournament looms, the message from Rocky Top is clear:
The Vols aren’t done yet.
