Tony Vitello Embracing the Ron Washington Effect in San Francisco
If you're wondering how things are going in San Francisco under new manager Tony Vitello, just ask him about Ron Washington. The veteran coach has quickly become a key presence on the Giants’ staff-and not just for his legendary infield work.
Vitello, in his first season at the helm, recently joined KNBR’s “Murph and Markus” and offered some insight into what it’s been like working alongside Washington. The first word out of his mouth?
“Entertaining.” And if you know anything about Ron Washington, that checks out.
“Entertaining is easily the first word that comes to mind,” Vitello said. “And I don't know if that's going to change between now and the end of the year.”
But while Washington’s personality can light up a clubhouse, there’s plenty of substance behind the style. Vitello made it clear that the 73-year-old coach isn’t just cracking jokes-he’s setting a tone. Whether it’s infield drills, pitcher fielding practice, or just the day-to-day grind of spring prep, Washington brings a unique balance of energy and accountability.
Vitello shared a moment from a recent pitcher fielding practice (PFP) session where he jumped in to get a feel for how things were being run. It didn’t take long for Washington to turn the tables on him.
“He was all over me about my fielding technique,” Vitello said with a laugh. “We’ve had fun, and he’s had fun with the players-some locker room humor, jabs back and forth-but I can tell you, he was very, very serious about me correcting my technique on a particular ground ball.”
That’s vintage Wash. He’s the kind of coach who can make you laugh one minute and have you reworking your footwork the next. And for a young manager like Vitello, that kind of presence in the dugout is invaluable.
Washington’s resume speaks for itself. A lifer in the game since his playing days began in 1977, he’s coached and managed at nearly every level, most recently serving as skipper for the Los Angeles Angels.
His reputation as a teacher-especially with infielders-is second to none. But it’s the way he mixes that technical know-how with a deep love for the game that makes him such a powerful influence on a young staff.
“So that’s the balance he’s got going on-having a lot of fun, but also bringing a lot of intensity to the ballpark,” Vitello said. “It’s one of the reasons why fans like Drew Gilbert as a player, and why everyone loves Washington as a coach.”
That blend of fun and fire is exactly what Vitello is trying to instill in the Giants as he builds his identity in San Francisco. He’s not just looking to win games-he wants to create a team that fans enjoy watching, a group that plays with heart and hustle every day.
“When this year is complete, we like fans to reflect on the team and say, ‘You know what, it was a fun group, but they also played hard. They brought a lot of intensity to the ballpark every day.’”
With Washington in the fold, that vision is already taking shape. The Giants are still early in their journey under Vitello, but one thing’s clear: the tone is being set, and it’s equal parts business and joy. And if that sounds like a winning formula, that’s because it just might be.