Todd Helton Named Associate Head Coach for Tennessee Volunteers Baseball
Knoxville, TN – In a landmark decision that’s generating major buzz across the college baseball landscape, the University of Tennessee has named legendary first baseman Todd Helton as the new Associate Head Coach of the Volunteers baseball program.
A Knoxville native and former Tennessee baseball star, Helton returns to Rocky Top with a wealth of experience and a Hall of Fame-worthy MLB career under his belt. Known for his outstanding 17-year tenure with the Colorado Rockies, Helton finished his professional career with a .316 batting average, over 2,500 hits, and five All-Star selections. His deep roots in Tennessee and his storied legacy in the sport make this homecoming especially significant.
Helton, who also played quarterback for the Volunteers football team before focusing on baseball, is expected to bring a unique blend of leadership, technical skill, and recruiting power to the program. Head Coach Tony Vitello called the hire “a transformational moment” for Tennessee baseball, noting Helton’s ability to inspire players and elevate the program’s national profile.
“Todd knows what it means to wear the Power T,” said Vitello. “He’s a Vol for life, and now he’s back to help lead us to Omaha.”
The move comes as Tennessee continues to build on its recent success, including multiple College World Series appearances under Vitello. Helton’s presence is expected to further energize the fan base and attract top-tier talent, both locally and nationally.
For Helton, the decision is personal. “This is home,” he said in a press release. “Tennessee shaped me, and now I want to help shape the next generation of Volunteers.”
As the Vols gear up for another promising season, one thing is clear: Todd Helton’s return is more than a coaching hire—it’s a powerful symbol of Tennessee baseball’s bright future.
