Tennessee outfielder Reese Chapman is growing into an intriguing draft prospect in his third season with the Vols. Chapman, a top 2023 prospect in the state of Colorado, began his Tennessee career at the 2023 Desert Invitational against UC San Diego. The outfielder only logged 19 at-bats in his debut season with the Volunteers, but it was clear that head coach Tony Vitello wanted an early look at Chapman in a talented Vols lineup.
Fast-forward to 2025 and Chapman is slashing .331/.411/.661 across 149 plate appearances heading into an SEC series with rival Kentucky. Chapman has already surpassed his number of at-bats from last season (106). The outfielder hit .274, launched seven home runs and drove in 31 RBI during his sophomore campaign in 2024.
Chapman was in competition with the likes of Dylan Dreiling, Kavares Tears and Hunter Ensley to find a spot in a lineup that ultimately proved talented enough to win the College World Series. Drieling and Tears were both high draft picks last summer, while Ensley continues to man center field for the Vols in 2025.
What’s been different for Chapman this season?
This year, Chapman has seen a significant increase in production, while performing as Tennessee’s primary right fielder. When asked about Chapman’s biggest area of growth this season, his head coach cited the outfielder’s poise as a carrying trait that’s elevated Chapman’s game in 2025.
“Reese this season – presence – just very comfortable in his own skin, very relaxed throughout,” Vitello said. “He works with intent, maybe not as many reps as some guys, but the intent in his reps has been as good as anyone for three straight years on our campus. And so the skill is there, and the work has been put in, but you got to let it work for you. And I think he’s done that in the past, but he’s doing it way more often (this season).”
Chapman’s diligence has bolstered the back of his baseball card. Out of 42 hits in 2025, 20 have been for extra bases. The left-hander has driven in 41 runs, on top of 10 homers.
Chapman boasts a potent left-handed swing that isn’t too extreme to the pull-side. The feel for hit has been the tool that’s been sharpened the most. Both the arm and coverage in the corner outfield have been noteworthy as well. With Chapman’s development this season, he definitely enters the realm of top names on Day 2 of the MLB Draft.
