Freshman (2013): Made his collegiate debut in Las Vegas, starting the second game of Tennessee's doubleheader against UNLV on Feb. 16. Pitched three innings, allowing two runs on six hits and four walks while striking out one. Also earned a start against ETSU on Feb. 26, picking up his first collegiate win after throwing 3.1 innings in which he yielded two runs on three hits. Fired a scoreless frame of relief in a 16-0 win over Alcorn State on March 8. Kept Florida off the board in an inning of work in Gainesville on April 26. Made his third start of the year against Arkansas State on May 8, yielding a pair of runs on two hits and three walks in 1.2 innings.

Overall, Esparza appeared in eight games for the Volunteers starting three of those eight with a 1-1 record.  In his 13.2 innings pitched, he had three strikeouts with 11 walks giving up 13 runs.