Liam Doyle's selection as the fifth overall pick by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 2025 MLB Draft marks a significant milestone for Tennessee baseball, establishing him as the highest-drafted player under coach Tony Vitello. Doyle's impressive season featured a stellar 10-4 record with a 3.20 ERA and a remarkable 164 strikeouts, setting a new program record and leading to his recognition as the SEC pitcher of the year.

Following in the footsteps of former Tennessee pitchers, Doyle becomes the seventh first-round pick under Vitello, continuing a trend for the program with first-round selections in four consecutive drafts. His dominance on the mound, showcased through multiple double-digit strikeout games, highlights his potential as he transitions into professional baseball.