Tony Vitello spoke with the media ahead of Wednesday’s rematch against Florida State in the College World Series semifinals.
Top-ranked Tennessee will take on No. 8 Florida State in the College World Series semifinals, a rematch of the teams’ thrilling opening-round contest.
Head Coach Tony Vitello addressed the media ahead of the Vols matchup, highlighting if it helps to play teams they’ve already beaten and the benefits of having two days off.
“I think it gives you a little bit of an understanding of what you’re looking at, but each day is different. In particular here. Everybody that you’re gonna face is gonna bring a different starting pitcher to the table that day, different relievers available, and then a different mindset too. Again, every day has got its own flavor to it.” Vitello said.
“Monday’s the big one. Here you kind of get into a routine where you, you have a day off typically in between, so you just kind of roll with it. But there’s been a lot of emotion lately. So the mental fatigue and physical fatigue certainly isn’t anything these guys can’t play with, especially in that stadium. But it helps kind of get you back to neutral and, you know, heal up any, you know owies you got like you’re talking about. But yesterday was a big one. Today was kind of back into our routine and a little bit back to normal business.” Vitello said.
Additionally, Vitello gave an update on the availability of center fielder Hunter Ensley for Wednesday’s game. Ensley exited Sunday’s game against No. 4 North Carolina after colliding with the center field wall following an outstanding catch.