Connor Fennell, Vanderbilt baseball’s Friday starter in 2026, announced his return to the Commodores July 17 after being a 20th-round pick of the White Sox in the MLB draft.
Fennell was the Commodores’ lone reliable starter in 2026 after putting up a 4.96 ERA in 15 starts with 102 strikeouts and 20 walks in 85⅓ innings. Although he got blown up a few times, he also put up six quality starts, five of which came in SEC play. His fastball is only in the upper 80s, limiting interest by professional teams, but it comes from a deceptive arm angle with a plus changeup.
Fennell sought more than the typical $150,000 signing bonus that 20th-rounders receive, and he was reportedly selected by the White Sox as insurance in case one of their other picks did not sign.
In 2027, Fennell projects to return to the Commodores’ rotation. The favorites to start alongside him are Austin Nye and Michigan transfer Shane Brinham. Other options could include returning sophomores Tyler Baird and Connor Hamilton and junior Matthew Shorey.
Aria Gerson covers Vanderbilt athletics for The Tennessean. Contact her at agerson@gannett.com or on X @aria_gerson.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Connor Fennell announces return to Vanderbilt baseball after MLB draft
