CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — VFL and MLB first-round pick Christian Moore is back in Tennessee for the first time since being drafted eighth-overall by the Los Angeles Angels.
Moore's Double-A Rocket City Trash Pandas are visiting the Chattanooga Lookouts and he said it's easy to tell when you're back in the Volunteer State.
"I can definitely smell it in the air," Moore said.
Moore dominated the minor leagues early on, and it took him no time at all to get called up to Double-A after a hot start in Single-A. He said he didn't expect to be back in Tennessee this soon.
"Thinking of LA, I didn't think I would be over here," Moore said. "It's kind of surprising and exciting to be in Tennessee and have a fan base here. It feels kind of like I'm home a little bit, it's nice. It's kind of like a heartfelt moment for me."
Moore has seen plenty of Tennessee fans throughout his pro career since it began and he is grateful to see their continued support even though his time with the Vols is done.
"The Tennessee fan base has seen me grow up for the last three years," Moore said. "They've pushed me to become a better player each and every day. They love me, and I love them to death."
Moore has also gotten visits from Blake Burke and Kavares Tears' families, who have come to watch him play. Moore said those moments are just a testament to the type of culture and bond the team developed at Tennessee.
"We're one big family," Moore said. "There is nothing better than having family out there supporting you."
Moore and the Trash Pandas will be in Chattanooga until Sunday, Aug. 18.
