Braydon Kersey, a two‑way standout from Mercer, has officially committed to the University of Tennessee baseball program, marking a significant addition to the Volunteers’ roster for the upcoming season. His pledge comes as a finalist for the John Olerud Two‑Way Player of the Year, underscoring his dual-threat capabilities.
A Dual‑Threat Talent
In the 2026 campaign Kersey hit .325 with 21 home runs and 67 RBIs, earning first‑team All‑SoCon honors as a designated hitter. He ranked second in the Southland Conference for both homers and RBIs, while also posting a 5‑4 record and a 4.97 ERA over 45 games pitched in his first two collegiate seasons. The left‑handed pitcher saved six games and logged 50.2 innings in 2025 before adding 20 innings in 2026, establishing himself as a reliable bullpen arm.
Kersey will retain two years of eligibility, positioning him for a junior season that could see him enter the 2027 MLB Draft. His blend of power hitting and right‑handed pitching makes him one of the most versatile prospects in the current class.
New Coaching Direction
Alongside Kersey’s commitment, Tennessee announced the hiring of Austin Knight, formerly of East Carolina, as the program’s new pitching coach. Knight’s arrival is expected to bolster the Volunteers’ pitching development and complement Kersey’s existing skill set on the mound.
The Vols are also hosting a series of high‑profile visits, including Samford outfielder Jake Souders, Northwestern State lefty Brody Trosclair, and Air Force second baseman Wyatt Hanoian. These prospects will further test Tennessee’s recruiting momentum as the team looks to build on its recent successes.