The heat is ramping up in Tennessee baseball first baseman Alberto Osuna's eligibility case with the NCAA. Social media support has built behind Osuna's case in the hopes that the NCAA will overturn its initial ruling.
In recent days, former and current Tennessee players have called out the NCAA on social media, building the #FreeBerto movement on X.
Now, East Tennessee congressman Tim Burchett makes his voice heard regarding Osuna's situation during a Congressional hearing.
"Despite following all the necessary steps to secure eligibility and play for the University of Tennessee, the NCAA in their infinite wisdom has blocked [Alberto Osuna's] opportunity," Burchett said on the floor of the House of Representatives.
"Students at UT have painted the Rock, to my left here, to show their support for Berto in hopes that he might play his final season with the Vols at Lindsey Nelson Stadium. He wants to do something for his family. This is what this is all about."
"It's about student-athletes ensuring they're on an equal playing field, Mr. Speaker, against a bureaucratic machine and nightmare that the NCAA has become and seemingly continues to let down student-athletes they claim to serve.
"It is not imperative that he gets on the field for [Tennessee] to win. It's just the right thing. NCAA, do the right dadgum thing."
Rep. Burchett also shared the following message on X: "Come on, NCAA, do the right Dadgum thing. This is an opportunity to help out an exceptional young man."
It's clear Tony Vitello's call for public support has hit the nerve of many fans and supporters throughout Vol Nation, including Knoxville's congressman.
"Public opinion can sway you in a negative way or a positive way," Vitello said last week. "And I just haven't heard a lot of that noise. I saw an ESPN article, which that's not local. And someone said Coach [Rick] Neuheisel had some comments. That's not local. I just don't know if anyone has talked to the kid.
Public opinion impacted Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia's decision as he built hype and support throughout the 2024 college football season. Tennessee baseball players, coaches, and supporters are looking to do the same for Osuna.