Chris Newstrom, a utility player for the Tennessee Volunteers baseball team, will not participate in the upcoming series against No. 8 Mississippi State due to an internal team matter, as confirmed by a University of Tennessee spokesman. Newstrom was listed as out on the Southeastern Conference (SEC) availability report released on April 9, but his absence is not expected to be long-term. The Volunteers, currently 21-12 overall and 4-8 in SEC play, are facing a crucial series as they strive to secure a spot in the NCAA tournament. Newstrom has struggled this season, holding a batting average of .180 over 23 games, with one home run and six RBIs. He has not started since March 22 against Missouri and has primarily served as a defensive replacement. Additionally, starting catcher Stone Lawless remains sidelined after suffering facial fractures from a pitch during a game against Vanderbilt on March 29. Coach Josh Elander expressed cautious optimism regarding Lawless's recovery, noting that he is improving but still in a waiting phase.