​Tennessee baseball signee AJ Curry has decided to forgo the remainder of the 2026 MLB Draft after going unselected in the first 10 rounds, choosing instead to play for the Tennessee Volunteers, according to multiple reports on July 12. The 6-foot-3, 205-pound prospect is listed as a first baseman, outfielder, and left-handed pitcher. He is ranked No. 48 in the 2026 class by Perfect Game, which makes him the fifth-highest ranked signee in Tennessee’s class and the top-ranked first baseman among his peers.
Curry, who hails from San Diego, California, is among 11 Vols signees who took part in the 2026 MLB Draft Combine. ESPN had him pegged as the No. 180 prospect entering the draft. His decision to join Tennessee continues a pattern of top-level talent choosing the Volunteers over other programs. Curry chose Tennessee in November 2024, turning down offers from Vanderbilt and Texas, among others, to commit to the Vols.
The versatile recruit joined the Volunteers with a broad toolkit that could translate to multiple roles on the field. As a first baseman, his size and power potential provide a solid corner infield profile, while his experience as an outfielder adds positional flexibility to Tennessee’s roster. Additionally, his left-handed pitcher profile offers a potential two-way option, though his primary impact is expected with the bat and defense at first base or in the outfield.
Curry’s recruitment drew attention not only for his physical tools but also for the strategic fit with Tennessee’s program. The Vols have emphasized a blend of athleticism, versatility, and a high ceiling for their signees, and Curry’s profile aligns with that approach. His ranking by Perfect Game places him among the more highly regarded members of Tennessee’s 2026 signing class, reinforcing the commitment Tennessee made to add depth and potential impact at multiple positions.
As the 2026 draft concluded with Curry’s decision to remain in college baseball, Tennessee fans can anticipate how he will be integrated into the lineup this upcoming season. Given his listed positions and a background that includes both corner-infield and outfield capabilities, Curry could see significant playing time in left field or at first base, with the possibility of late-inning pitching appearances if needed. The combination of his size, mobility, and left-handed delivery could also give Tennessee an edge in matchups against right-handed pitching, where his bat speed and power could be leveraged.
This development follows a broader pattern of high-profile college commitments who weigh professional opportunities against the value of another year of college experience and exposure. For Curry, the choice to honor his commitment to Tennessee while declining the early rounds of the draft reflects a confidence in his ability to develop further within the program and contribute to the Vols’ aspirations in the SEC and beyond.
Emmett Siegel covers Tennessee baseball for Knox News. For more information, contact Emmett Siegel at emmett.siegel@knoxnews.com or follow X (Twitter) @EmmettSiegel_. This story originally appeared in the Knoxville News Sentinel and continues to be a focal point for Tennessee fans eager to see how Curry’s multi-positional skill set will translate to collegiate success and impact in the 2026 season.