Unveiling Tennessee’s New Baseball Coach: Salary Details and Impact on Program’s Future

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — The University of Tennessee has appointed a new baseball coach, who stands to earn over $1 million annually under his recent contract. This past weekend marked the announcement of Josh Elander as the head coach of Tennessee’s baseball team. Elander, who has been a crucial part of Tony Vitello’s coaching staff since Vitello’s start, is stepping up to lead the team. His new role comes with a five-year agreement extending until June 30, 2030, which outlines an annual base salary of $500,000, accompanied by an additional $500,000 in supplemental pay. Besides his salary, Elander is eligible for performance-based bonuses tied to the team’s success throughout the season. The total potential earnings, including incentives, could reach up to $1,960,000. Team appearance in the SEC Tournament – $20,000 Team appearance in the NCAA Regionals – $40,000 Host NCAA Regionals – $60,000 Winning the SEC regular season championship (as determined by the SEC) or SEC Tournament Championship – $80,000 Appearance in the NCAA Super Regionals – $100,000 Host Super Regionals – $120,000 Appearance in the NCAA College World Series – $140,000 (Appearance in the NCAA College World Series Championship Series – $160,000 NCAA College World Series Champion – $200,000 Coach of the Year Awards. Either or both of the following: SEC Coach of the Year – $5,000 National Coach of the Year – either American Baseball Coaches Association, DlBaseball or Baseball America – $10,000 Academic Progress Rate: $25,000 for a single year APR exceeding the national average single-year APR in baseball in the same year As part of his perks, Elander will receive several complimentary tickets: four for home baseball games, six for home football games, and six for both men’s and women’s basketball home games. Additionally, he will have access to $2,000 annually through the department’s apparel sponsor for personal use. Transportation benefits include either a monthly car allowance of $850 or the provision of a vehicle for personal use. For those interested in further details, the complete memorandum of understanding is available for review here. Elander spent the past eight years as an assistant coach and the last three seasons as an associate head coach. He replaced Vitello after he became the manager for the San Francisco Giants. In 2024, Vitello became the highest-paid coach in college baseball, making $3 million annually.