Tennessee baseball stars Blake Burke and Andrew Fischer are feeling right at home as they return to Knoxville for a series against the Tennessee Smokies. It's a special trip for both players, who are former Tennessee baseball standouts and All-Americans. Burke, a third-year pro, and Fischer, a rookie, are back in their 'home' city, playing for their respective teams, the Biloxi Shuckers and the Tennessee Smokies.
Burke, who was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the first round of the 2024 MLB Draft, is showcasing his power with 19 home runs and 61 RBIs in 70 games. He's slashing .265/.341/.551 with a .892 OPS, and his performance has been consistent, with 16 home runs and 82 RBIs in 132 games last season. Burke's return to Knoxville is extra special as he gets to see the newly renovated Lindsey Nelson Stadium, which he describes as 'unbelievable'.
Fischer, the Brewers' No. 8 prospect, was selected in the 2025 MLB Draft and has been elite at the plate, crushing eight home runs in 17 games with the Double-A Shuckers. He's up to 28 total home runs in 2026 with 64 RBIs. Fischer's return to Knoxville is also significant, as he's playing in front of the fans who feel like home. Both players are excited to be back in Knoxville, and they're looking forward to the support of their former teammates and coaches, including Josh Elander and Hunter Ensley.
The series against the Smokies is a chance for Burke and Fischer to showcase their skills and build on their success. Burke's power and Fischer's plate presence will be key to the Shuckers' performance. The fact that both teams won the first-half pennant in their respective divisions adds to the excitement of the series. As Burke said, 'It's fun to play in front of them', and Fischer added, 'A big reason you go to Tennessee in the first place is to play in front of these fans'.
The return of these talented players to their 'home' city is a celebration of their achievements and a chance for them to connect with their roots. It's a testament to the power of baseball and the impact it can have on players and fans alike. As Burke and Fischer continue their professional careers, their return to Knoxville will be a cherished memory for them and a source of inspiration for future generations of Tennessee baseball players.
