Tony Vitello Takes the Helm of the San Francisco Giants
In a decision that marks a milestone in the history of professional baseball, Tony Vitello has been named the new manager of the San Francisco Giants. The announcement, made on Wednesday, represents the first time a Major League team has hired a manager directly from a college program without prior experience as a professional coach. Vitello, who considered staying in Tennessee after winning the 2024 World University Championship, replaces Bob Melvin, who was fired on September 29 after a season with an 81-81 record, marking the fourth consecutive year without reaching the playoffs for the Giants.Vitello, 47, is recognized as one of the best coaches in college baseball. His ability to recruit talent and transform programs has been key to his success. He was the Giants’ top choice after Nick Hundley withdrew from consideration. San Francisco’s president of baseball operations, Buster Posey, is betting on Vitello’s ability to translate his success at Tennessee to the Major Leagues. Vitello was chosen over Brandon Hyde, former manager of the Baltimore Orioles, and two other former Major League catchers interviewed by the Giants. The organization paid a $3 million buyout to secure his hiring.I am incredibly honored and grateful for this opportunity. I am excited to lead this group of players and represent the San Francisco Giants. I can’t wait to get started and work to establish a culture that will make Giants fans proud.
Tony Vitello
Vitello’s ascent to the Major Leagues is remarkably rapid. The Giants have struggled in recent years, with a third-place finish or worse in the division since 2017. Management hopes Vitello can revitalize the team. Before arriving at the Giants, Vitello had a distinguished career at Tennessee, with a record of 341-131 and participations in the World University Championship in 2021, 2023, and 2024. His arrival at the San Francisco team implies a significant change, moving from the dynamics of college baseball to the demands of Major League Baseball. Tennessee athletic director Danny White issued a statement Wednesday thanking Vitello for leading the Vols to a “championship program.” The reluctance of MLB teams to hire coaches from universities is a long-standing trend, unlike other professional sports leagues. In an interview, Vitello mentioned that he does not plan to change his training approach.We are thrilled to welcome Tony to the Giants family. Tony is one of the brightest, most innovative, and respected coaches in current college baseball. His leadership, competitiveness, and commitment to player development stood out during our search. His ability to build strong and cohesive teams and his passion for the game align perfectly with the values of our organization. We look forward to the energy and direction he will bring, along with the memories we will create, as we focus on the future of Giants baseball.
Buster Posey
