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NASHVILLE, TN - The Nashville Sounds snapped a three-game slide Friday night and secured their first win of the series, topping the Charlotte Knights 4-2 at First Horizon Park in front of a sellout crowd. Coleman Crow delivered another steady performance on the mound, running through five and two-thirds innings while keeping Charlotte in check. He finished with 5.2 innings pitched, allowing three hits and two earned runs, while striking out six and walking four. Crow even nearly strung together a third straight quality start, with his momentum halted in the sixth inning when Austin Hays helped end a no-hit bid with a one-out double. Despite a low-hit night early, the Sounds made their opportunities count. Nashville struck first with help from patience and mistakes, including a bases-loaded walk in the fourth inning and a wild pitch in the fifth that scored Brandon Lockridge after he drew one of the team’s eight walks through the opening frames. Even with only two hits through the first several innings, the Sounds built a 2-0 lead and stayed in control. The Knights answered, tying the game at 2-2, highlighted by Ryan Galanie’s seventh home run in 15 games and his third in four contests. Then came the difference—late. After Eduardo Garcia doubled in the sixth and Nashville stranded runners, the offense finally broke through in the bottom of the eighth. Tyler Black opened the inning with the first hit of the frame. Darrien Miller followed with a clutch RBI double into the right-field corner to score Black easily. Garcia added another hit, and Lockridge drove in the go-ahead run with a sacrifice fly, pushing Nashville ahead 4-2. From there, Drew Rom retired three straight after a leadoff single, sealing the victory and extending his scoreless streak. The Sounds will aim to keep rolling on Saturday night with Garrett Stallings (3-3, 3.70 ERA) set to start for Nashville to begin August.

By David Oglesby As the calendar flips toward August, sports fans begin to gear up for the familiar anticipation of college football. From the bright lights of the SEC to the hard-nosed battles of the FCS and the competitive trenches of the NAIA, five programs with deep ties to the Nashville area are preparing for the 2026 season. Vanderbilt, Tennessee State, Austin Peay, Tennessee Tech, and Cumberland University each carry different expectations, but all share the same goal: make noise in their respective levels and give local fans something to cheer about. Vanderbilt Commodores (FBS – Southeastern Conference) Last season the Commodores delivered one of the most impressive campaigns in recent program history, finishing 10-3 overall and 6-2 in the SEC under head coach Clark Lea. A late-season win over rival Tennessee capped a remarkable year that ended with a bowl appearance and a final ranking in the top 15. Strengths heading into 2026 include returning experience on both lines of scrimmage and a coaching staff that has finally found consistency in the ultra-competitive SEC. The offense showed it could score on anyone, and the defense improved markedly in the second half of last season. Weaknesses remain depth at the skill positions and the brutal nature of an SEC schedule that rarely offers easy weeks. Game of the year: the annual showdown with Tennessee. A second straight win over the Vols would cement Vanderbilt’s rise and electrify Nashville. Prediction: 9-3 overall, 5-3 in conference, with another bowl berth locked in. Postseason football is expected once again on West End. Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (FBS – Conference USA) The Blue Raiders endured another tough campaign in 2025, finishing 3-9 overall and 2-6 in Conference USA in their second year under head coach Derek Mason. Early-season struggles were compounded by defensive breakdowns, though back-to-back victories over Sam Houston and New Mexico State to close out November provided a glimpse of potential to build on. Strengths heading into 2026 center on organizational stability and late-season momentum. University leadership reaffirmed their commitment to Mason, and offseason coaching reshuffles—particularly on the offensive side of the ball—bring fresh ideas to spark production. Weaknesses remain a defense that surrendered nearly 31 points per game last fall, an inconsistent running game, and the need for more discipline to turn close CUSA losses into wins. Game of the year: the annual "100 Miles of Hate" rivalry game against Western Kentucky. Reclaiming bragging rights over the Hilltoppers would be a major signature win for Mason's tenure. Prediction: 5-7 overall, 3-5 in conference. While a bowl bid will require a significant leap, taking a visible step forward is the baseline requirement in Murfreesboro this fall. Tennessee State Tigers (FCS – Big South-OVC) The Tigers endured a difficult 2025, finishing 2-10 and 0-8 in conference play in the first year under head coach Reggie Barlow. Offensive production lagged and defensive consistency never fully arrived. Strengths this year start with a full offseason under the new staff and the talent pipeline that historically runs through Nashville’s HBCU powerhouse. The program still draws strong local recruits and maintains a proud tradition. Weaknesses are obvious: finding a reliable quarterback and shoring up a defense that allowed too many big plays last fall. Game of the year: the always-emotional matchup with rival Tennessee Tech or a potential high-profile non-conference tilt. Prediction: 5-6 overall, 3-5 in conference. A winning season remains a stretch, and postseason play is unlikely unless significant progress shows up early. Austin Peay Governors (FCS – United Athletic Conference) The Governors posted a solid 7-5 mark in 2025 (4-4 UAC) and enter the new season with momentum. Quarterback play and a balanced attack helped them stay competitive throughout the year. Strengths include returning skill-position talent and a coaching staff that has the program trending upward. Home dominance at Fortera Stadium remains a calling card. Weaknesses center on road performance and the need to generate more consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Game of the year: the early-season trip to Vanderbilt. A competitive showing against an FBS foe would set the tone for a strong UAC campaign. Prediction: 8-4 overall, 5-3 in conference, with a realistic shot at an FCS playoff berth if they can win the close games. Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles (FCS – Southern Conference) Coming off an outstanding 11-2 season and an undefeated conference mark in the Big South-OVC, the Golden Eagles make the jump to the Southern Conference in 2026. The move raises the bar significantly. Strengths are clear: a proven winning culture under coach Bobby Wilder, elite offensive production last year, and the confidence that comes with back-to-back strong seasons. Weaknesses will be tested by a tougher overall schedule and the adjustment to new league rivals such as Mercer, Furman, and Chattanooga. Game of the year: any of the early SoCon tests, particularly a potential home date against a ranked conference foe. Prediction: 9-3 overall, top-three finish in the SoCon, and another FCS playoff appearance. The Golden Eagles look built to compete immediately in their new home. Cumberland University Phoenix (NAIA – Mid-South Conference) The Phoenix finished 7-4 overall and 3-3 in Mid-South play in 2025, showing they can hang with the upper tier of NAIA football. Located just east of Nashville in Lebanon, Cumberland continues to punch above its weight. Strengths include a physical style of play and the ability to score in bunches when the offense clicks. Weaknesses remain consistency against the conference’s top programs and depth on the defensive side of the ball. Game of the year: the annual battles with traditional Mid-South powers such as Lindsey Wilson or Georgetown. A win over one of those teams would go a long way toward a playoff push. Prediction: 8-3 overall, 4-2 in conference, with a legitimate chance to reach the NAIA postseason if they can secure a few more signature victories. Across all five programs, the common thread is opportunity. Vanderbilt aims to prove 2025 was no fluke. Austin Peay and Tennessee Tech enter with genuine postseason aspirations. Tennessee State seeks stability and progress. Cumberland looks to climb the NAIA ladder. For fans throughout Middle Tennessee, the 2026 season offers plenty of reasons to fill the stands and follow the local product. Kickoff can’t come soon enough.

NASHVILLE, TN - The Nashville Sounds couldn’t finish the comeback against Charlotte, dropping a 6-4 decision on Thursday night at First Horizon Park. Colton Gordon delivered five strong innings in his second start at First Horizon Park and third overall with Nashville, but the Sounds couldn’t overcome Charlotte’s early damage. Gordon worked out of trouble after an explosive first inning that left him in a hole. Still, he settled down, retiring 13 of the next 15 Knights he faced and giving Nashville a chance to rally throughout the night. Charlotte struck first in the top of the first. Former Sound Eric Haase delivered the big blow, plating three with a bases-clearing, 3-RBI double after Gordon walked and singled his way into trouble early. Even though Gordon eventually found his rhythm, the damage proved costly. Nashville answered immediately. The Sounds tied the game with a two-double surge featuring Brewers prospect Brock Wilken and later took their first lead of the night in the fourth inning. Wilken’s bat stayed hot, as he doubled and drove in a run, helping Nashville go ahead 4-3. Eduardo Garcia also played a key role in that push, reaching via walk and stealing before moving to third. The Knights regained control in the sixth. After Lyon Richardson entered, Haase added to his standout night with his fifth RBI and a two-run homer that put Charlotte back in front. Charlotte added insurance late, as Riley Unroe hit a two-out solo homer in the ninth and the Sounds’ late comeback attempt fell short. Ethan Murray took the mound for Nashville for a one-run game situation, but Unroe’s homer pushed the Knights’ lead to two. Nashville ultimately left the potential tying runs aboard and finished with 12 total left on base. The series continues Friday night at 6:35 p.m., with Nashville sending RHP Coleman Crow (5-1, 4.22) to face Charlotte’s RHP David Sandlin (1-0, 2.37).

NASHVILLE, TN -The Nashville Sounds dropped their second straight game to the Charlotte Knights on Wednesday night, falling 12–5 at First Horizon Park. Charlotte took control early and never looked back, despite the Sounds posting a late surge that included two additional home runs. The Knights finished with a big offensive output, highlighted by a seven-run fourth inning that flipped momentum after Nashville briefly reclaimed the lead. Brock Wilken left his mark for the Sounds, adding his 11th home run of the season with a two-out, two-run blast in the bottom of the ninth to bring the final tally to 12–5. Luke Adams also contributed late, drawing a two-out walk that set the stage for Wilken’s surge. Nashville’s offense was powered by early homers and first-time moments at First Horizon Park. Brandon Lockridge opened the scoring in the bottom of the first with a one-out solo shot—his first since July 20, 2025, and his first as a member of the Milwaukee Brewers organization. Andrick Nava added a second solo homer for the Sounds in the bottom of the first to extend Nashville’s lead to two. Eduardo Garcia continued the historic home-run theme in the bottom of the third, launching his first career long ball at the park and putting the Sounds back on top. Garcia ended an eight-game hitless drought in the series, and he finished the night with his second home run against Charlotte this season. On the mound, Tyson Hardin made his 13th start but ran into trouble in the top of the third. He surrendered a two-run homer to Ryan Galanie to tie the game at two, marking Hardin’s first home run allowed since June 20. Charlotte then erupted, including additional damage from multiple extra-base plays and a seven-run inning that built a 9–3 lead. The Sounds and Knights continue the series Thursday night with first pitch scheduled for 6:35 p.m. at First Horizon Park.

NASHVILLE, TN —The Nashville Sounds nearly got shut out in their six-game series opener against the Charlotte Knights at First Horizon Park, spoiling Charlotte’s goose-egg bid with a dramatic ninth-inning run in a 6-1 Sounds loss on Tuesday night. Charlotte struck early when Ryan Galanie launched a two-run homer in the top of the first inning, a blast that proved to be the difference in the series opener. The Knights then widened the advantage further in the middle innings, pushing the lead to six runs on a second home run and adding pressure after a relief pitching change. Brandon Lockridge, who was in the middle of his Major League rehab assignment, helped keep Nashville in the game—finishing with two hits and eventually recording his first run of the night in the ninth. On the mound, Sounds starter Brett Wichrowski made his first start and second appearance since an extended stay on the Injured List. He worked 1.1 innings and faced eight batters, while Charlotte’s relief corps did the heavy lifting through the early middle frames. After the Knights’ offense pulled ahead, Jose Urquidy took the ball for Charlotte and held Nashville at bay for much of his outing, allowing just two Sounds hits through five scoreless innings. Left-hander Hagen Smith followed with a perfect sixth inning, striking out two, before handing the ball to Mason Adams to close things out. Nashville’s breakthrough came late. In the ninth inning, Lockridge opened the frame with a one-out single and was joined by a pair of free passes to load the bases. Jeferson Quero then barreled a ball that turned into a key defensive moment, as Lockridge was able to scoot home on an error—giving the Sounds their lone run of the game. But the late rally was short-lived; another extended plate appearance ended with a play at first base to extinguish Nashville’s comeback hopes. Lockridge also collected his first multi-hit game in three contests with the Sounds, and he now looks to build momentum as the series continues. Game two is Wednesday night, when Tyson Hardin—ranked as Nashville’s Brewers No. 9 prospect—will get the ball for the Sounds as they aim to even the series.

Photo / Trevecca Athletics NASHVILLE, TN — Mark Elliott, the long-serving director of athletics at Trevecca Nazarene University, will retire at the end of the 2026–27 academic year, closing a 16-year tenure that helped reshape Trojan athletics from a developing program into a sustained NCAA Division II contender. Elliott’s leadership has spanned three transformative eras: Trevecca’s transition to NCAA Division II, the creation of the Great Midwest Athletic Conference, and the Trojans’ more recent move to the Gulf South Conference—an adjustment approved for membership effective July 1, 2024. Under his watch, Trevecca also built an athletic culture defined by Christian-Scholar-Athlete priorities, expanded opportunities for student-athletes, and earned consistent national academic recognition. Trevecca President Dan Boone introduced Elliott as the University’s 13th director of athletics on July 12, 2011, one day after the NCAA accepted Trevecca’s application to begin the Division II membership process. Elliott officially began on July 18, 2011. “Sixteen years ago, we sat in my office and talked about the role of Trevecca’s athletic director,” Boone said. “His clear focus on the priorities of Christian-Scholar-Athlete was as aspirational then as they are visible now. Mark Elliott has served the University as a man of faith, a mentor to coaches, and an example to athletes.” Elliott said his planned retirement will not change how he leads through his final year. “There is no sunset here. I intend to sprint through the finish line,” he said, adding that the timing calls for “new vision, new eyes, and new leadership.” A founding conference leader, Elliott helped guide Trevecca into the Great Midwest as a charter member and served in the early league period in an administrative leadership role. He later led Trevecca through the Gulf South transition, positioning the Trojans in a more regional Division II footprint. On the academic side, Trevecca’s performance has mirrored the department’s mission. In the NCAA’s 2025 Academic Success Rate report, the Trojans posted a 94 percent ASR, ranking No. 12 among 311 Division II institutions, while earning the NCAA Presidents’ Award for Academic Excellence for the seventh consecutive year. As Elliott concludes his tenure, Trevecca notes that his legacy will be measured not only by conference transitions and postseason breakthroughs, but also by departmental growth—nearly doubling to about 400 student-athletes—while staying centered on developing Christian scholars and athletes.

Pavan was named the 2025-26 Mid-South Conference Athletic Director of the Year, marking the fourth time he has earned the honor. He previously received the award in 2017-18, 2019-20 and 2022-23. The conference said the award recognizes outstanding leadership and commitment to advancing intercollegiate athletics within the Mid-South Conference. Pavan expressed gratitude for being selected by fellow athletics directors. “I am so humbled and honored to be voted by the other Mid-South Conference athletics directors for this award,” Pavan said. “We have the best conference in the NAIA and all of the athletics directors work hard for the betterment of the conference. I am so blessed to work at Cumberland University with our great coaches, athletic staff and our President, Dr. Paul Stumb.” Under Pavan’s leadership, the Phoenix continued a tradition of excellence during the 2025-26 year. Cumberland captured four Mid-South Conference regular-season championships and two MSC Tournament titles, finishing third in the Presidents’ Cup standings. The department also placed 49th nationally in the NAIA LEARFIELD Directors’ Cup, reflecting success across its 30 varsity sports. Pavan’s responsibilities extend well beyond athletics. In addition to serving as Vice President of Athletics, he serves as the university’s Vice President for Facilities and Infrastructure, overseeing day-to-day operations for numerous campus departments. He also served as chair of the Mid-South Conference Administrative Council during the 2025-26 academic year. Cumberland University President Dr. Paul Stumb praised Pavan’s leadership and character, noting his consistent work ethic and commitment to the institution’s mission and students. Pavan begins his 19th year leading Cumberland Athletics in 2026-27 and his 42nd year in collegiate athletics. During his tenure, the Phoenix have expanded by adding 12 varsity sports and have strengthened administrative leadership and athletic facilities. Pavan has guided Cumberland to 59 Mid-South Conference regular-season and tournament championships, 147 individual conference champions, two team national championships and 21 individual national titles. He has also helped foster academic success, with Cumberland student-athletes posting a departmental grade-point average above 3.0 for eight consecutive years while earning NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Institution recognition. Earlier this summer, Pavan was recognized on the national stage after being named one of four NAIA recipients of the NACDA Athletics Director of the Year Award. He will also be inducted into his high school’s Hall of Fame in September. Cumberland also received recognition on the communications side, as Assistant Sports Information Director Harley Dixon was named the 2025-26 Mid-South Conference Assistant Sports Information Director of the Year. Dixon earned the award after an outstanding first season in his full-time role. After two years as a graduate assistant in Cumberland’s Sports Information Office, he transitioned to the assistant position for the 2025-26 academic year and quickly became a key part of the department’s communications and broadcast operations. In his first year, Dixon revamped Cumberland’s live broadcast production, improving the quality and professionalism of streams and creating a more engaging experience for Phoenix fans. He served as the primary communications contact for multiple sports, including men’s and women’s soccer, women’s basketball, softball, men’s and women’s tennis, men’s volleyball and flag football. He also handled play-by-play duties for men’s and women’s soccer and softball broadcasts and added color commentary for Phoenix basketball. Beyond game coverage, Dixon oversees updates to the athletics website, including biographies and statistics for more than 700 student-athletes, while supporting archival research. He also played a vital role in hosting the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championship Opening Round. Kyle Allen, Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Information, said Dixon has elevated both broadcasts and the exposure of Cumberland Athletics, adding that his work ethic and creativity have made an immediate impact. Dixon previously earned national recognition in 2024 with a seventh-place finish in the NAIA-SIDA Publications Contest for his men’s soccer season preview. A native of South Portsmouth, Kentucky, he graduated from Shawnee State University in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in sport management and earned his master’s degree in sports management from Cumberland in May 2025 before joining the athletics communications staff full-time. The Mid-South Conference Assistant Sports Information Director of the Year award is voted on by sports information directors and recognizes excellence in athletic communications, media relations and service to both an institution and the conference.

SUGAR LAND, TX - The Nashville Sounds’ bid to secure a Tuesday-night win ended in heartbreak as the Sugar Land Space Cowboys came away with a 3-2 walk-off victory in extra innings at Constellation Field. The Sounds battled through a see-saw game marked by clutch hitting and timely pitching, only to be undone in the bottom of the 10th when Sugar Land broke through with the deciding run on a line-drive single and scored from third. Tyler Black, again extending his presence on base into the late frames, drew notice for his late-game impact, while Andrick Nava delivered his third home run of the season to keep Nashville within striking distance. Nashville struck first in the top of the second inning. Luke Adams led off with a base hit to left, then advanced on a wild pitch. Ethan Murray followed with an RBI single into left field, scoring Adams to give the Sounds a 1-0 edge. Sugar Land answered quickly in the bottom of the second. Thomas Pannone issued a single and a walk to start the frame, and although Garret Guillemette grounded into a force out, the Cowboys managed to push a run across as a runner from third scored, tying the game at one. Both sides traded momentum over the middle innings. Nashville regained control in the top of the fifth when Nava crushed a solo homer to left-center, putting the Sounds back ahead 2-1. The lead did not last. In the bottom of the sixth, a one-out single and a pair of pitching changes led to an inherited runner scoring on a Trenton Brooks RBI single, leveling the score at two. After settling down, Nashville’s bullpen carried the game into extra innings. Blake Holub pitched a 1-2-3 eighth, then added a scoreless ninth before the Sounds went down in order in the 10th, leaving a runner stranded on second. In the bottom of the 10th, Reiss Knehr faced trouble early. A sacrifice bunt advanced the placement runner to third, and then Cavan Biggio delivered a line-drive single into left-center, beating Nashville’s outfield pursuit and completing the walk-off win. The Sounds and Space Cowboys continue their six-game series at Constellation Field on Wednesday, July 22, with first pitch scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

Nashville, TN - Coleman Crow delivered another dominating outing and helped the Nashville Sounds snap a three-game losing streak with a 4-0 shutout of the Norfolk Tides on Sunday night at First Horizon Park. After dropping the previous two nights, Nashville closed the series in style, turning in its sixth shutout win of the season. Crow, the Brewers’ No. 23-rated prospect, provided the foundation with his second quality start of the year. The right-hander allowed just one hit across six scoreless innings, striking out six and working around two walks. It marked his seventh career start of at least six innings without surrendering an earned run. Offensively, Tyler Black jumped on the momentum early. A one-out RBI triple put the Brewskis on the board for the third consecutive game, extending Black’s hitting streak to 10 straight contests. He later added a leadoff single in the fourth inning, recording his eighth multi-hit performance of the season and boosting his on-base streak to 24 games. Norfolk threatened briefly, but Nashville kept pushing in key spots. In the sixth, Jacob Hurtubise reached on a bunt and Eduardo Garcia drew a walk to put runners in scoring position. Black and the next batter worked the inning, but Nashville left two men stranded. The game finally turned decisive in the seventh. Jacob Quero began the inning with a leadoff single and came around later as Brock Wilken and Darrien Miller contributed to the rally. A well-executed bunt and a throwing error helped put two more runs on the board, and Freddy Zamora added an RBI single to make it 4-0. Crow’s night ended in the seventh when Cameron Wagoner made his Triple-A debut. Wagoner pitched a clean 1-2-3 frame, and Gerson Garabito followed with seven straight Norfolk batters retired across the eighth and ninth to seal the shutout. Crow earned his fifth win of the season. Nashville now heads to Texas for an interleague six-game series beginning Tuesday night against the Sugar Land Space Cowboys.

The Nashville Sounds saw their momentum stall again on Saturday night at First Horizon Park, dropping a 9-2 decision to the Norfolk Tides to fall into their third straight loss of the weekend series. While the Tides found the gaps, strung together key at-bats, and turned pressure into runs, one bright thread ran through the night for Nashville. Tyler Black refused to slow down. Black extended his on-base streak to 23 consecutive games and pushed his hitting streak to nine straight, reaching base again late after waiting until his last at-bat to keep the run going. The story of the game, though, quickly became a tug-of-war that Norfolk controlled more often than not after the Sounds grabbed an early advantage in the second inning. Brock Wilken gave Nashville a 1-0 lead with his ninth home run of the season, crushing a solo blast to left field, but Norfolk answered immediately in the top of the third as Colton Gordon—making his Sounds debut—issued a leadoff walk, and then Heston Kjerstad lined a sharp single past Eduardo Garcia to bring the tying run home. Norfolk took the lead for good in the next turn at the plate when Ryan Noda delivered his first triple of the season, scoring before Chadwick Tromp followed with an RBI single into left field to make it 2-1. The Tides widened the gap in the fourth inning, using bases-loaded opportunities to keep the pressure rolling as Jud Fabian drove in another run with an RBI single, and Norfolk continued to stack on offense with back-to-back RBI hits that left Nashville trailing 5-1 after Gordon’s night started to unravel. Even as Gordon settled in at points—striking out five Tides batters and working through early frames—Norfolk’s ability to turn rallies into multi-run innings became the difference, and by the time Gordon finished his debut, the damage had already been done. After Gordon exited, Lyon Richardson offered a steadying presence, throwing two scoreless innings and adding four strikeouts over 2.0 innings of relief, giving Nashville hope that the game could be kept within reach. That hope didn’t last long, however, as the Tides broke things open again in the top of the eighth when Carlos Rodriguez allowed four runs to score, highlighted by a bases-clearing triple from Michael Siani and an additional run after Fabian added a sacrifice fly. Nashville finally posted two runs of its own in the bottom of the eighth when Jacob Hurtubise—making his first appearance with the Sounds since May 31—doubled into left-center and Luis Matos followed with an RBI single to center field, but the rally ended before it could snowball any further. The Sounds had one last opportunity in the ninth after getting a leadoff single from Jeferson Quero, yet the late push was shut down and Norfolk completed the win. With the series continuing into Sunday night, Nashville will look to regroup for the finale, with Coleman Crow scheduled to start and first pitch set for 6:05 p.m.

Photo / TTU Athletics Cookeville, TN - Start spreading the news: Tennessee Tech outfielder Jorsixt Jimenez is officially trading the Purple and Gold for pinstripes after signing a free agent contract with the New York Yankees on last Monday. The move caps a long-held dream for the Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic native—who also grew up in Queens and spent time at Queens College—and who has long counted the Yankees among his favorite teams. “I'm really excited for him,” said Tennessee Tech head coach Matt Bragga, who coached Jimenez for two seasons. “He’s a great young man and an incredible worker. JJ has earned this opportunity. He has had the dream of playing professional baseball for a long time, and because of his relentless work ethic and determination, that dream has become a reality.” Jimenez’s breakthrough season with the Golden Eagles fueled the opportunity. A Dick Howser Trophy semifinalist and a first-team All-Ohio Valley Conference selection, he posted standout numbers that placed him among the program’s best in multiple categories. He hit .401 with 20 home runs and 69 RBI, adding 55 runs scored and 81 total hits. His power and discipline translated into an .817 slugging percentage and a .483 on-base percentage. He also built momentum on the national stage, finishing second in the college division of the CHIPS Performance Home Run Derby in Omaha—an event that came just before the College World Series. Accolades have followed Jimenez throughout his career. In addition to his 2026 honors, he earned National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association honorable mention All-America recognition after being named to the All-East Region first team. He was also recognized by the Division II Conference Commissioners Association, the American Baseball Coaches Association, and Rawlings, while previously securing first-team honors across all three groups in 2023. That season included being named East Coast Conference Rookie of the Year. With his signing, Jimenez becomes the 59th player in Tennessee Tech program history to land a professional contract as he works to earn his way to the major leagues. The Yankees currently operate six minor league affiliates: FCL Yankees, DSL Yankees, Tampa Tarpons, Hudson Valley Renegades, Somerset Patriots, and the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders—providing a clear pathway for Jimenez as he begins his professional journey.

Nashville, TN - Nashville Soccer Club picked up its rhythm after nearly eight weeks of World Cup schedule disruption, delivering a clinical 1-0 victory over Atlanta United FC on Friday night at GEODIS Park. The result extended the “Boys in Gold” unbeaten run to nine MLS matches overall (7W-0L-2D) and kept them in the Supporters’ Shield race’s top spot. Shak Mohammed provided the decisive moment, scoring in the 79th minute for his second career goal in as many games against Atlanta. Assisted by Alex Muyl and Matthew Corcoran, Mohammed’s strike settled a match that Nashville largely controlled—maintaining pressure at the Castle while keeping Atlanta from fully finding its rhythm. Brian Schwake continued his standout season between the posts. The goalkeeper made five saves and registered his league-leading eighth shutout, a performance capped by another strong showing against the Five Stripes. In two starts versus Atlanta in 2026, Schwake has conceded zero goals. For Nashville, the win marked more than just three points. It represented their fourth straight victory, swept the season series against Atlanta for the first time in club history, and underscored their dominance at GEODIS Park. The club entered the night as the only MLS team unbeaten at home this season, with seven wins and a draw, and extended its impressive home scoring advantage, outscoring opponents 24-9 at home in regular-season play. Atlanta was held at bay under cloudy, 80-degree but humid conditions, though both sides finished with late cautions. Nashville’s discipline helped seal the narrow margin. Next, Nashville returns to GEODIS Park for Pride Night, hosting CF Montréal on Wednesday, July 22 at 7:30 p.m. CT.

Photo / Nashville SC NASHVILLE, TN - After nearly two months away from Major League Soccer action, Nashville SC returns to league play on Friday eveningwith a rematch against Atlanta United at GEODIS Park—and it could be a moment that further separates the Boys in Gold from the rest of the East. Nashville has been the standard-bearer of MLS in 2026, sitting top of the Eastern Conference and the Supporters’ Shield race with 33 points through 14 games, the best start by any club in 25 years. With Inter Miami having played one more match than Nashville, a win would push the margin in the East to a commanding five points. It would also extend Nashville’s advantage in the Shield race to four points over Vancouver, with the Whitecaps holding a game in hand after a Chicago match was postponed. At the center of Nashville’s dominance is Hany Mukhtar, the captain and offensive catalyst who has been a mainstay since the club’s inaugural MLS season. Few players in league history bring the combination of production and versatility Mukhtar provides. Against Atlanta specifically, he has been nearly unstoppable—posting seven goals and nine assists versus the Georgia club. Nashville has also avoided defeat in any match where Mukhtar has found the scoresheet. Mukhtar’s form has remained elite throughout 2026, including two assists in April’s 2-0 road win, earning his fifth MLS All-Star selection, and completing a hat trick that helped keep Nashville atop the Supporters’ Shield standings. He currently leads the league’s top team in goal contributions and expected goals, and the question for Atlanta is whether its defensive structure can handle him without breaking. Still, Nashville’s sweep aspirations won’t come easily. Atlanta arrives in 2026 struggling, sitting 14th in the East with three wins from 14 matches, yet history shows they can still hurt strong opponents. In 2025, the teams were separated by just a point—Atlanta took four from six in the head-to-head battle. Nashville must also plan for Atlanta’s attacking threats, including Alexey Miranchuk, plus the creative presence of Miguel Almirón and the attacking instincts of Emmanuel Latte Lath. With a summer hiatus providing key recovery time, Nashville’s healthiest version of the roster may be closest to Friday’s lineup reality—making this more than a rematch, but potentially the beginning of another statement chapter for the season’s top team.

Charlotte, NC - The Nashville Sounds turned Wednesday night into a momentum reset, using a four-run seventh inning to defeat the Charlotte Knights 6–3 in Charlotte and even the series at one game apiece. After Charlotte jumped out front again early—taking a 1–0 lead off Tyson Hardin in the second—Nashville refused to stay behind for long. The Sounds worked their way into the game with patience and timely contact, then pushed the contest out of reach late with a rally that combined power, baserunners, and clutch hits. Knights Strike Again, Then the Sounds Answer Charlotte’s lead was manufactured by Munetaka Murakami, a White Sox Major League Rehabber who delivered his first career minor-league RBI. The Knights’ early push continued when the offense found ways to keep innings alive, as the Sounds took their time finding the right moments against the Knights’ rotation and bullpen. Nashville answered in the second with a sequence that looked more like manufacturing runs than chasing them. Luke Adams drew a walk to start things off, and Brock Wilken followed with a single to set the table. After Darrien Miller walked to load the bases, Ethan Murray extended the rally by drawing a walk that scored Adams, tying the game at 1–1. Eduardo Garcia then brought Nashville its first lead of the series with a drive that plated another run. Hardin steadied himself after the early damage, working through the middle innings and preventing Charlotte from pulling away. Still, the Knights matched the intensity. Charlotte tied it again at 2–2 in the sixth on another productive night from Rikuu Nishida, and an RBI-single helped keep the game close heading into the late innings. Leonard’s 11th Homer Ignites a Four-Run Seventh The turning point arrived in the top of the seventh. Eddys Leonard, already the headline contributor for Nashville, provided a spark with his team-leading 11th home run of the season—a go-ahead solo shot to left-center that set the frame for what became a full-on offensive surge. Leonard’s blast wasn’t the only catalyst. Tyler Black kept the pressure on with a base hit into right field, extending his on-base streak to 18 consecutive games. Then, with the Knights’ bullpen issuing free passes, Nashville loaded the bases and cashed in repeatedly. Darrien Miller and Ethan Murray delivered back-to-back RBI singles to push the margin further, turning a manageable deficit into a cushion. By the time the seventh ended, the Sounds had built a 6–2 lead. Close It Out: Fernandez Finishes for Save No. 3 Kaleb Bowman relieved Mark Manfredi in the eighth and surrendered an RBI-single before the Sounds maintained their advantage. Junior Fernandez took over in the ninth and sealed the win, striking out Riley Unroe and then working through the final two batters to secure his third save of the season. What’s Next The Sounds continue the six-game set against Charlotte on Thursday, July 9, with first pitch scheduled for 6:04 p.m. RHP Lyon Richardson is set to start for Nashville.

Photo / Cumberland Athletics LEBANON, TN — Cumberland University Vice President for Athletics Ron Pavan has announced the hiring of Tim Dunford as the new head coach for the Phoenix men’s and women’s tennis programs. Dunford, a veteran collegiate coach with more than 15 years of head coaching experience, joins Cumberland after successful tenures across NCAA Division II and Division III programs. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for turning around teams, developing student-athletes, and establishing winning team cultures. “I am very excited to hire Tim Dunford as our new head men's and women's tennis coach,” Pavan said. “Tim brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Cumberland University. He is a proven winner on and off the tennis court.” Strong Impact at Bluefield State Most recently, Dunford served as Director of Tennis and head coach of both the men’s and women’s tennis programs at Bluefield State University. During his first season, he led the women’s team to a 10–4 record, including an undefeated mark in CIAA play and the program’s first NCAA Regional appearance. His leadership also coincided with major individual honors, including coaching the CIAA Player of the Year (Female) and earning CIAA Women’s Tennis Coach of the Year recognition. On the men’s side, Dunford worked to revitalize the program, guiding the team to a strong start in his second season before injuries slowed momentum. Coaching Stops Across Multiple Programs Before his time at Bluefield State, Dunford led programs at Tusculum, Ashland, West Virginia Wesleyan, Brewton-Parker, King, Albion, the College of Wooster, and Thiel College. His track record includes inheriting teams in transition and raising their performance through recruiting, player development, and a student-athlete centered coaching philosophy. His résumé also includes building two programs from the ground up, producing conference award winners, and developing nationally ranked players and doubles teams, along with multiple ITA Academic Team recognitions. “Sleeping Giants” Mindset Dunford expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity and what he believes is ahead for both teams. “I would like to thank Mr. Pavan for this incredible opportunity,” Dunford said. “I am both humbled and excited to now be a part of two programs that have such a rich history. I truly believe that these teams are sleeping giants, not just within the region, but nationally as well. I look forward to leading these storied programs to the prominence that they deserve!” Academic and Championship Tradition Cumberland’s new coach also comes with a strong record of academic achievement. His teams have regularly earned ITA All-Academic Team recognition, with multiple players receiving Scholar-Athlete honors. Cumberland’s Recent Results The Cumberland women’s tennis program earned an at-large berth to the NAIA National Championship last season, finishing 11–10. The women won their first match at the NAIA National Championship for the first time since 2008. The men’s team went 8–13 last season. However, the program previously made four consecutive NAIA National Championship appearances before last year. Next Step for Dunford Dunford will be the latest head coach to lead two programs with long-standing tradition at Cumberland, and he is expected to begin working later in July.

NASHVILLE, TN — The Nashville Sounds capped a Fourth of July celebration with a doubleheader sweep of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp on Saturday night at First Horizon Park, using timely hitting and late-game resilience to earn two victories and take control of the series heading into Sunday’s finale. In Game 1, Nashville completed a comeback that ended with a walk-off win, marking the Sounds’ fourth walk-off victory of the season and their first since May 17. Jacksonville jumped ahead early, scoring twice in the top of the first as the Jumbo Shrimp strung together a mini two-out rally. After Logan Henderson worked through the early damage, the Sounds answered immediately. Jett Williams led off the game with a triple and later scored on an RBI single from Tyler Black, tying the contest and setting the tone for an evening that featured runs on both sides. The game stayed close through the middle innings as both clubs traded answers, including a solo homer from Andrick Nava and another Jacksonville score powered by a home run off the Nashville bullpen. Henderson’s rehab start reached a natural conclusion after 68 pitches, with Kaleb Bowman taking over before Nashville’s pitching kept the deficit manageable. Trailing into the seventh, Jacksonville’s momentum looked poised to flip the outcome. Instead, Nashville’s bats made a late push. With Tyler Black drawing a walk, Eduardo Garcia entering as a pinch runner, and Jeferson Quero loading the bases, Luis Matos delivered the decisive blow—driving a two-out, two-RBI walk-off double over the left fielder’s head to send the Sounds home in celebration. The sweep continued in Game 2, as Nashville struck first and never relinquished the lead. Black produced an early RBI with his eighth double of the season, and later runs—built around smart baserunning and clutch production—helped Nashville expand to a four-run third-inning frame. With Coleman Crow beginning his own rehab assignment, the Sounds’ pitching and offense combined to build a 5-0 advantage before Jacksonville narrowed the gap. By the seventh, the Jumbo Shrimp had life, but Reiss Knehr secured the final outs to preserve the win and complete the twinbill. And with it, Nashville claimed the series—adding another chapter to a Fourth of July night shaped by timely hitting under humid but tolerable summer conditions.