Ty Putnam, a highly touted right‑handed pitcher from Tennessee, has signed a $1.897 million contract with the Colorado Rockies, opting to begin his professional career instead of attending college.
Implications for Tennessee’s rotation
The agreement comes after the Rockies selected him in the fifth round of the MLB Draft, a slot that carried a slot‑value of $553,100 but for which the club paid well above the recommended amount.
Putnam’s decision follows a standout performance at the MLB Combine, where he showcased a fastball that topped out at 99 mph, reinforcing his status as the No. 92 overall prospect and the No. 23 right‑hander in the 2026 recruiting class.
He had verbally committed to the University of Tennessee in October 2024, but after receiving a lucrative offer, he chose to sign with the Rockies, joining a growing list of Tennessee signees who have turned professional.
The move leaves the Volunteers with a thin pool of experienced right‑handed arms heading into the 2027 season, a situation that could open the door for several incoming freshmen to earn significant roles.
Four Tennessee prospects were drafted this year: Putnam, Jared Grindlinger, Trevor Condon and Kaiden McCarthy. While Grindlinger and McCarthy inked deals with the Los Angeles Angels, Condon agreed to a contract with the St. Louis Cardinals.
In addition to the drafted players, the Vols will welcome Gannon Grant, Gary Morse and Shawn Sullivan, while portal additions Parker Detmers, Hayden Simmerson and Braydon Kersey add depth to the pitching staff.
With only Landon Mack and Brady Frederick returning as proven right‑handed pitchers, the 2027 rotation will rely heavily on fresh talent, making Putnam’s departure a pivotal factor in shaping the team’s depth.