Tony Vitello Hits the Ground Running as Giants Manager, Prioritizing Player Connections Ahead of Spring
Tony Vitello hasn’t managed a single inning in the big leagues yet, but he’s already showing a veteran-level understanding of what it takes to lead a Major League clubhouse. The San Francisco Giants’ newly minted manager is wasting no time getting to know his players-not just over the phone or through Zoom, but face-to-face, in their own environments. That kind of effort says a lot about how seriously he’s taking this transition from the college ranks to the pros.
Vitello has already made his way to the Dominican Republic to meet with shortstop Willy Adames and is hoping to connect with Rafael Devers while he’s there. After that?
He’s heading to South Korea to meet with outfielder Jung Hoo Lee. That’s not just a manager doing his homework-it’s a manager investing in relationships, and that matters.
What’s clear is that Vitello is leaning into this opportunity with the kind of energy and enthusiasm that made him such an intriguing hire in the first place. He’s not waiting for the team to assemble in Scottsdale for spring training. He’s taking the initiative now, building trust and familiarity before a single pitch is thrown in the Cactus League.
He’s also doing the little things that go a long way in a diverse clubhouse. Ahead of his trip to the Dominican Republic, Vitello has been brushing up on his Spanish with assistant coach Jayce Tingler. That kind of cultural awareness and willingness to meet players where they are-literally and figuratively-can set the tone for a more cohesive team dynamic from day one.
Coming straight from the college game, Vitello knows he’s got something to prove, especially in a league where experience often reigns supreme. But he’s not going it alone.
He’s surrounded himself with some serious baseball minds. Ron Washington, one of the most respected infield coaches in the game, is on staff.
And in the front office, Vitello will have the benefit of leaning on two legends-Bruce Bochy and Dusty Baker-serving as special advisors. That’s a wealth of wisdom at his fingertips, and Vitello seems smart enough to tap into it.
Still, no amount of mentorship can replace the importance of winning over the clubhouse. Veteran players can be skeptical of unconventional hires, especially those without MLB experience. But Vitello’s approach-his proactive travel, his charisma, his willingness to joke and connect-gives him a real shot at earning their respect quickly.
It’s not just about X’s and O’s or lineup cards. It’s about building a culture, and Vitello seems to get that. By connecting with players on their turf before they even set foot in Arizona, he’s laying the groundwork for a smoother spring and, potentially, a stronger season.
The Giants took a bit of a gamble hiring a college coach to lead a Major League club. But if Vitello’s early efforts are any indication, he’s not just up for the challenge-he’s already putting in the work to make sure his players know he’s in their corner. And that’s the kind of leadership that can turn a bold hire into a winning one.