A two-time SEC Freshman of the Week during his playing days at Mississippi State, Brandon Turner brings a wealth of experience as a player and as a coach to the Golden Eagle coaching staff.

“I have a great relationship with Brandon that dates back to when I was recruiting him,” Bragga said. “I was thrilled when he decided to join our staff and now that he is here I can see why he comes so highly recommended by everyone he’s worked with.”

“I am glad to be here,” Turner said. “It’s great working for a great coach like coach Bragga and what he has done at Tennessee Tech over the last few years is phenomenal.”

Recruited by Bragga out of Walker Valley High School, Turner eventually joined the Mississippi State Bulldogs, where he quickly made a name for himself.

Named second-team NCBWA All-American in 2007, Turner participated in the 2007 College World Series. During his freshman season, he finished second in the SEC in batting average with a mark of .399.

After a distinguished career at Mississippi State, Turner was selected by the Florida Marlins in the 12th round of the 2008 MLB draft. 

As a member of the Jamestown Jammers, Turner finished third in the New York-Penn. League in batting average in 2008, en route to a being named to the NYPL All-Star Game. In 2009, he was promoted to the Single-A Greensboro Grasshoppers.

Before, during and after his playing career, Turner has also distinguished himself as a coach.

“While I was in the minors I always wanted to coach,” Turner said. “My dad coached for 38 years and it has always intrigued me.”

Turner began his coaching career as a member of the Chattanooga Traveling team in 2009, before serving as the advanced scout and infield coach for Lee University Flames. In 2010, Turner helped guide the Flames to an NAIA National runner-up.

Turner then moved on to Carson-Newman, where he took on several responsibilities including the infield, hitting and recruiting.

In 2011, Turner got his first taste as a head coach as he helped guide the Tennessee Styx to the regular season co-Championship in the Great South league.

He has also helped out at several baseball camps including Wes Hodge’s Real Sports Academy Hitting Camp and the Bobby Valentine All-American Baseball Camp.

Brandon and his wife Morgan (Lyle) currently reside in Cookeville.