Tegan Kuhns, the ace pitcher who anchored the Tennessee Volunteers rotation for two seasons, announced that he will forgo his final year of eligibility and enter the 2026 MLB Draft.
In a heartfelt message to fans and teammates, Kuhns thanked the University of Tennessee and its community for the support that helped shape his development, recalling the electric atmosphere of Neyland Field and the camaraderie that defined his time in Knoxville.
During his sophomore campaign he posted a 3.56 earned run average and struck out 106 batters across 81 innings, numbers that placed him among the nation’s most dominant college left‑handers and sparked widespread speculation about his professional potential.
A New Chapter in a Promising Career
Scouts and analysts alike project Kuhns as a first‑round selection, citing his sharp command, deceptive mix and ability to perform under pressure. If drafted as expected, he will join a growing pipeline of Volunteers alumni who have successfully transitioned to the majors.
The move also underscores the increasing allure of the MLB Draft for top college talent, who now see a clear pathway from the SEC to the big leagues without the need to extend their collegiate eligibility. Kuhns’ decision reflects both confidence in his own abilities and a desire to capitalize on the momentum built during his time in Knoxville.