Hunter Ensley announces return to Tennessee baseball for 2025 season

Hunter Ensley is returning to Tennessee baseball for a fifth season, the Vols center fielder announced Tuesday.

Ensley has been the starting center fielder for the past two seasons and played an integral part in Tennessee winning the program's first national title.

"Vol nation, let's run it back," Ensley said in a video posted on social media.

The veteran outfielder scored the winning run in UT's 6-5 title-clinching win on June 24 to add to his legend after a momentous catch against UNC on June 16 in the CWS. Ensley ran full speed into the left-center wall at Charles Schwab Field to make a catch in that game, ultimately leaving with an injury that he played through for the remainder of UT's run to the national championship.

Ensley has started 110 games and hit .289 in the past two seasons with 19 homers and 79 RBIs.

How Hunter Ensley developed into key player for Tennessee baseball

Ensley finished the 2024 season on a tear. He hit. 372 in his final 26 games with six homers, eight doubles, 27 RBIs and 24 runs. He hit .439 in the NCAA Tournament, slugging four homers and three doubles while driving in 11 and scoring 11 runs.

established himself as Tennessee's center fielder early in the 2023 season after bouncing around positionally. He was a backup outfielder in 2022 then worked as a first baseman in fall 2022 behind Blake Burke.

He emerged as the answer the Vols and coach Tony Vitello needed in the middle of the outfield, bringing toughness and leadership to the position.

The Huntingdon, Tennessee, product has a year of eligibility remaining because he missed the 2021 after having labrum surgery. He received a medical redshirt.

What Hunter Ensley's return means for Tennessee baseball roster

Ensley solidifies Tennessee's roster in multiple ways.

From a lineup perspective, he brings a valuable right-handed bat. From a defensive perspective, he is a reliable center fielder and stabilizes the defense up the middle.

Ensley's biggest value in returning, though, is in his presence. He is a respected member of the roster and he bridges the gap from Tennessee's past three teams into the 2025 season.

Mike Wilson covers University of Tennessee athletics. Email him at michael.wilson@knoxnews.com and follow him on Twitter @ByMikeWilson. If you enjoy Mike’s coverage, consider a digital subscription that will allow you access to all of it