Do you believe in fairy tale endings for good people? That appears to be just what has happened for fan favorite Kirby Connell, the long-time Tennessee relief pitcher that endeared himself to Vol fans everywhere.
After a memorable career with Tennessee where he pitched the Vols out of a countless number of jams but without the talent level the Bigs are looking for, Connell will now join Tony Vitello’s staff at Tennessee. While as of this writing an official announcement has not been made by the UT Athletics Department, the story has been confirmed by numerous news outlets. How great is this development for one of the all-time Tennessee Baseball fan favorites?
Connell’s five year career with Tennessee consisted of a stellar performance as a relief pitcher while producing a 10-2 win-loss record. The most innings he pitched as a Vol were five against UGA during the 2024 season, a game that he earned the win over the SEC rival. He holds the Tennessee program pitching record of 125 appearances.
Vol fans will never forget Connell coming in to relieve freshman pitcher Dylan Loy in the National Championship game against Texas A&M after the Aggies had rocked the freshman for two quick runs in the 8th inning to close the deficit to 6-3. Connell faced three batters, all outs with the last two being strikeouts to shut down the TAMU rally.
Connell didn’t possess the blazing fastball that MLB teams are looking for. He relied on the curve and slider along with his experience and savvy developed during his time with the Vols. He was ever present in the Vols dugout encouraging his teammates and celebrating their successes while contributing when called upon out of the bullpen. He was once told by an unidentified coach that he would never pitch in the SEC. So much for that erroneous prediction.
Connell has been a strong presence in the community making regular visits to East Tennessee Children’s Hospital and assisting with youth baseball camps. He has been a regular on the SEC Honor Roll. “Vollie Fingers” as Vol fans nicknamed Connell, a name taken from MLB great Rollie Fingers who was known for his handlebar mustache like Connell’s, is a well-grounded, respectful of all, young man from a family led by his pastor father.
Yes, fairy tale endings can happen for good people. Kirby Connell ends his Tennessee playing days as a National Champion and now begins his coaching career with the defending National Champion Tennessee Volunteers.
