Chris Burke: ESPN
Bio: Another “Tennessee guy.” Burke was a dominant player for UT from 1998-2001, hitting 20 home runs in his senior season. Burke was selected with the tenth overall pick in the 2001 MLB draft by the Houston Astros organization, where he played until 2007, before retiring in 2009. During his time in the majors, Burke played every position on the field besides pitcher and catcher.
Burke works as an analyst for ESPN, and also manages the Chris Burke Baseball Academy. Burke was interviewed for the Tennessee job in 2011, but Serrano was hired instead.
Pros: Burke’s name has been thrown around for the UT head coaching job for years. He has the experience at the Major League level, and has spend the past six years around the game with ESPN. He has experience in coaching through his academy, and has the name recognition that would be vital in recruiting. It’s no secret Burke is interested in the job, and would relish the opportunity to come back to his alma mater as the head coach.
Cons: Burke has never been a manager at the college level. Yes he has the playing experience in the MLB, but aside from his playing days at UT, he doesn’t have tons of college experience.
