Tennessee Baseball’s Dalton Bargo Transfers to NC State, Adding Left-Handed Power and Versatility to Wolfpack’s Lineup for 2025 Season.

In a pivotal offseason move that could have significant implications for the 2025 college baseball season, Dalton Bargo, one of Tennessee’s most promising bats, has officially entered the transfer portal and committed to NC State. The left-handed slugger, known for his plate discipline, defensive flexibility, and postseason composure, now joins a Wolfpack program on the rise and hungry for national relevance.

This transfer not only boosts NC State’s offensive capabilities but also underscores the growing impact of the transfer portal in reshaping college baseball’s competitive landscape.

Who is Dalton Bargo?

Dalton Bargo, a 6-foot-1, 205-pound utility player, initially transferred to Tennessee from Missouri prior to the 2024 season. After struggling for consistent playing time with the Tigers, Bargo blossomed in Knoxville under head coach Tony Vitello. He quickly became a fan favorite for his timely hits, calm demeanor, and smooth swing from the left side of the plate.

During the 2024 campaign, Bargo slashed .310/.405/.520 while adding 9 home runs, 38 RBIs, and 15 doubles. He also contributed defensively at both corner infield positions and occasionally in the outfield, showcasing the kind of versatility that coaches crave in the modern game.

But despite Tennessee’s deep roster and College World Series ambitions, Bargo decided to seek a larger role—one he’s likely to receive with the Wolfpack in Raleigh.

NC State’s Need: Why This Move Matters

NC State head coach Elliott Avent has guided the program to national prominence over the past decade, including a surprise trip to the College World Series in 2021 and consistent postseason appearances. But heading into 2025, the team faced several key departures due to graduation and the MLB Draft.

The loss of middle-order bats and veteran presence left a void in both leadership and production. That’s where Bargo comes in.

“Dalton is exactly the type of player we want to build around,” Avent said in a statement. “He’s mature, team-first, and knows what it takes to win in the SEC. That experience will be invaluable in our clubhouse.”

With Bargo’s arrival, the Wolfpack not only secure a dangerous left-handed hitter but also a player who’s been tested against some of the best arms in the nation.

What Bargo Brings to the Table

From a baseball standpoint, Bargo brings a rare combination of offensive polish and positional flexibility.

• Left-Handed Bat: NC State was seeking more lineup balance, and Bargo’s ability to handle right-handed pitching makes him a strong middle-of-the-order candidate.

• Plate Discipline: With an on-base percentage over .400, Bargo’s approach fits perfectly into NC State’s analytical hitting philosophy.

• Versatility: He can play first base, third base, and corner outfield, giving the Wolfpack options in constructing their lineup and defensive alignment.

• Postseason Experience: Having played in SEC and NCAA postseason action, Bargo arrives with a winning mentality and composure in high-pressure moments.

Analysts see this transfer as a win-win situation: NC State fills a major offensive and leadership gap, while Bargo gets the opportunity to be a featured player in a competitive ACC environment.

Reaction From Knoxville and Raleigh

Tennessee fans expressed both disappointment and appreciation for Bargo’s decision. While his departure leaves a noticeable gap, especially in left-handed hitting depth, most fans understand the rationale.

“I can’t blame the kid,” one Vols fan wrote on social media. “He deserves to be in the lineup every day, and he wasn’t going to get that here with how stacked we are.”

Meanwhile, NC State fans were ecstatic.

“We’ve been needing a guy who can change the game with one swing. Bargo is that guy,” tweeted a Wolfpack fan account. “This could be one of the best under-the-radar additions of the offseason.”

Transfer Portal Impact: College Baseball’s New Reality

Dalton Bargo’s move is part of a growing trend in college baseball: the increased reliance on the transfer portal to acquire experienced, ready-to-contribute talent. As with football and basketball, top-tier programs are now using the portal not just for depth but to find impact players.

In 2024 alone, more than 2,000 players entered the college baseball transfer portal, and the elite programs continue to reap the rewards. For a player like Bargo, who has already adjusted to SEC-level pitching, the transition to the ACC should be seamless.

His story also highlights how players are now more empowered than ever to find the right fit for their talents and long-term goals.

What This Means for NC State in 2025

With Bargo in the fold, NC State adds a proven weapon to an already intriguing roster. The Wolfpack finished with a 36–21 record in 2024 and advanced to a regional, but fell short of Omaha.

With improvements needed at the plate and in team consistency, Bargo’s veteran presence could provide the spark that elevates the squad.

“He’s a glue guy who can carry the team when needed but doesn’t force anything,” said one ACC scout. “He’s got pop, sure, but he’ll also give you a quality at-bat every time.”

Expect Bargo to slot in somewhere between the 3–5 spots in the batting order, depending on how the rest of the roster shakes out during fall ball and winter training.

What’s Next for Bargo?

For Bargo, this transfer represents more than just a new school—it’s a fresh opportunity to showcase his full skillset and potentially elevate his MLB Draft stock.

Heading into his final year of eligibility, Bargo will be on every scout’s radar. His ability to hit to all fields, combined with his performance in one of the toughest conferences in college baseball, makes him an intriguing Day 2 prospect.

If he can put up similar or better numbers in the ACC, and continue to display leadership in the clubhouse, Bargo could be one of the breakout stories of the 2025 season.

While Bargo’s transfer may not generate the same national buzz as some high-profile moves, its significance shouldn’t be underestimated.

• NC State addresses a pressing offensive need with a proven talent.

• Bargo gains a clear path to everyday playing time and a leadership role.

• The ACC adds another elite bat that could impact the postseason race.

In an era where roster turnover is the norm and the portal is as crucial as recruiting, this move symbolizes what modern college baseball has become: a dynamic, year-to-year chessboard where adaptability and opportunity often trump loyalty and long-term development.

For Dalton Bargo and the NC State Wolfpack, this move just might be the winning checkmate they’ve been waiting for.