$1.1 million
Vols VFL Tanner Franklin Joins St. Louis Cardinals After Being Drafted in 2025
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – In a major move for the Tennessee Volunteers, former pitcher Tanner Franklin has signed with the St. Louis Cardinals after being selected in the 2025 MLB Draft. Franklin was one of nine Tennessee players chosen in the draft, solidifying the team’s strong presence in the professional league.
The right-hander was selected with the No. 72 overall pick in the second round and has signed for the full slot value of $1.1 million, according to MLB.com’s Jim Callis. This signing marks a significant milestone in Franklin’s career and showcases his talent and potential as a player.
Franklin, who previously played for the Volunteers, has proven himself to be a valuable asset on the field. His skills and dedication have caught the attention of the St. Louis Cardinals, who are excited to have him join their team.
During his time at Tennessee, Franklin was a standout player and helped lead the team to success. His impressive performance and contributions to the team have earned him this opportunity to play at the professional level.
The signing of Franklin is a testament to the strength and talent of the Tennessee Volunteers and their ability to produce top-notch players. Fans and supporters of the team are eagerly anticipating Franklin’s future success with the St. Louis Cardinals.
Credit: Elliot Walker/Tennessee Athletic
Author: WBIR Sports
Published: 8:47 PM EDT July 21, 2025
Updated: 8:47 PM EDT July 21, 2025
Tennessee Pitcher Tanner Franklin Signs with St. Louis Cardinals After Being Selected in 2025 MLB Draft
Former Vol Taken in Second Round, One of Nine Tennessee Players Drafted
By: John Smith
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The St. Louis Cardinals have officially signed former Tennessee pitcher Tanner Franklin, who was selected with the No. 72 overall pick in the 2025 MLB Draft. The right-hander, hailing from Jefferson City, Tennessee, was taken in the second round.
According to MLB.com’s Jim Callis, Franklin has signed for the full slot value of $1,145,900, solidifying his spot on the Cardinals’ roster.
Franklin, who transferred from Kennesaw State, made a strong impact in his lone season with the Vols. In 38.2 innings, he struck out 52 batters and recorded two saves in 27 appearances.
The talented pitcher was one of nine Tennessee players selected in the 2025 MLB Draft, with eight of those picks coming in the first three rounds. This impressive feat ties for the fourth-most draft selections of any program this year and marks the second-highest total in school history. The Vols were just one pick shy of their program-record 10 selections in 2022.
