Some bench players: Ensley, Payne, Smith, & Tears

[NighthawkVol]

I was wondering about some of the guys we haven’t seen much or any of and if any of our “in the know” folks know what their future prospects look like.

Hunter Ensley: I thought I remember hearing some good things about him this off-season. With Gilbert and Beck leaving after this year, there will be spots open in the Outfield. What kind of hitter is he? Good outfield arm? Any speed?

Kavaris Tears: I’m guessing he’s redshirting. I remember reading that he’s raw, but has huge upside as a hitter. With Burke apparently the future at 1B, I’m guessing Tears will have a shot at the RF spot in 2023. He pitched in HS, so I assume he has the arm.

Ethan Payne: we haven’t seen him since the pre-conference schedule when he came in as a late inning defensive replacement. Don’t know anything else about him.

Ethan Smith: I saw speculation that he was injured. Any confirmation of that? If not, it seems weird that he’s not pitching any, given what we thought when he transferred.

Also, we’ve talked about Halvorsen plenty, but I wonder if he can’t get back soon, if it might be worth it to just redshirt him this year and let him play all of next year healthy. That’ll give him plenty of time to get fine tuned under Anderson and really show out for scouts next season. Tennessee loses some relievers and he might could step in and be a stellar closer. He would be of far greater use to Tennessee in 2023 and would be able to show the best version of himself.

Thanks for any insight.

 

[youcancallmeAl]

I was wondering about some of the guys we haven’t seen much or any of and if any of our “in the know” folks know what their future prospects look like.

Hunter Ensley: I thought I remember hearing some good things about him this off-season. With Gilbert and Beck leaving after this year, there will be spots open in the Outfield. What kind of hitter is he? Good outfield arm? Any speed?

Kavaris Tears: I’m guessing he’s redshirting. I remember reading that he’s raw, but has huge upside as a hitter. With Burke apparently the future at 1B, I’m guessing Tears will have a shot at the RF spot in 2023. He pitched in HS, so I assume he has the arm.

Ethan Payne: we haven’t seen him since the pre-conference schedule when he came in as a late inning defensive replacement. Don’t know anything else about him.

Ethan Smith: I saw speculation that he was injured. Any confirmation of that? If not, it seems weird that he’s not pitching any, given what we thought when he transferred.

Also, we’ve talked about Halvorsen plenty, but I wonder if he can’t get back soon, if it might be worth it to just redshirt him this year and let him play all of next year healthy. That’ll give him plenty of time to get fine tuned under Anderson and really show out for scouts next season. Tennessee loses some relievers and he might could step in and be a stellar closer. He would be of far greater use to Tennessee in 2023 and would be able to show the best version of himself.

Thanks for any insight.

I'm not sure Blake is automatic for the first base job next season. Tony hasn't been putting him in the DH or pinch hitting him lately. Don't know why. Hope all is ok there.

I like your take on Halvorsen. I honestly think we don't need him this season, and could use him next season after Blade leaves. I guess it depends on what Seth wants.