Seth
Stephenson

Just as they did in 2020 with Alerick Soulaire (2nd round) and 2021 with Chad Dallas (4th round), the Vols are turning another Texas JC product into a Day Two prospect. Stephenson has played a super utility role for Tennessee this season, seeing time at DH, left field and center field. He's also a capable infielder. It's a versatile role that he will likely continue at the next level in pro ball. Picking just one position, he may profile best to center field. Stephenson is just flat out twitchy fast. An 80-grade runner underway, he can cut the bases like few others and is a constant threat to steal (11-for-14 this season). At the plate, there is some length to his right-handed swing, as he wants to get big. At 5-foot-9, 165 pounds he would be much better served with a flatter swing path and a more consistent middle of the field approach. In limited action he was 1-for-3 with a 100 mph EV double in the series. Overall, Stephenson continues to improve and has produced a .338/.391/.588 slash so far this season. He will likely receive consideration around the 6th to 8th round.

Stephenson is just flat out twitchy fast. An 80-grade runner underway, he cuts the bases like few others. He scored easily from first base on a double to left center field. At the plate, there is some length to his right-handed swing, as he wants to get big. At 5-foot-8, 160 pounds he would be much better served with a flatter swing path and a middle of the field approach. Defensively, he played some shortstop, but with fringe average arm strength he might be a better fit at second base, or long-term at the next level, center field.

Relatively raw in other areas, Stephenson's electric speed makes him an instant impact on defense and the base paths. He's a twitchy, explosive athlete with some pop and barrel control. Last season at Temple, the 5-foot-9, 160-pound burner stole 31 bases while batting .383 with nine HR. Stephenson will contend for a starting spot at SS or 2B, both open spots for the Vols after losing Liam Spence (SS) and Max Ferguson (2B) to the draft this past July.

2021 MLB Draft: A Tennessee recruit, the 5-foot-10, 165-pound switch-hitter is a 70-grade runner whose speed impacts the game. His other tool grades are fringe to average, but his bat-to-ball skills (.383 average with 37 strikeouts in 215 plate appearances) and speed (31 stolen bases) will carry him until his wiry frame develops and his sneaky present power further develops. He has a chance to stay at short with added arm strength, but Stephenson may best profile in center field or at second base in the future where he will likely become an above-average defender and top-of-the-order bat.