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Evan Russell cleared to return for Tennessee, per report
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Evan Russell has reportedly been cleared to play. Mike Wilson of the Knoxville News Sentinel reported Saturday that Russell is available for Tennessee baseball’s game against Campbell in the Knoxville Regional.
Citing a source with direct knowledge of the situation, Wilson reports that Russell had a Saturday morning meeting with Chris Klenck, the head team physician. After the meeting, Russell was reportedly cleared to resume activity.
Evan Russell is cleared and available for Tennessee baseball against Campbell on Saturday, according to a source with direct knowledge of the situation.
The Vols catcher did not play Friday against Alabama State. https://t.co/CgIcbv1VNg
— Mike Wilson (@ByMikeWilson) June 4, 2022
Russell’s father confirmed the news.
Evan has been cleared to play today !!! God is good… to answer all concerns and doubt. Evan is good and just to clarify what’s he been dealing with is anxiety, stress and pressure. Basically just the worries and conviction of the Lord… Evan’s Great!! Thanks to everyone!!
— Jason Russell (@jrussellsh4) June 4, 2022
Before Tennessee’s Friday game against Alabama State, UT announced that Russell, the team’s starting catcher, was unavailable. Charlie Taylor filled in for Russell, recording an RBI in the 10-0 win.
After the game, Vitello told reporters that Russell informed him via text message that he was sick. Friday night, Vitello did not appear to expect to have Russell back for Saturday.
“I don’t know. I would say he wasn’t able to be here today— I wouldn’t think quick turnaround,” Vitello said in postgame, per Rocky Top Insider. “In the fall, if you’re out one day you have to come to me first before we’ll see if we’re going to push the envelope. … Health first and then we’ll push the envelope later.”
Tennessee is expecting a public apology from ESPN after an announcer of another NCAA Tournament game shared unsubstantiated claims about the reason for Russell’s absence.
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
