SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — In a candid media session on Monday, Tony Vitello addressed the timeline surrounding his recent hiring as manager of the San Francisco Giants. Vitello, who joined the Giants after a successful stint with the Tennessee Volunteers, clarified key moments that led to his departure from college baseball just four months after taking the position.
During the discussion, Vitello posed a question to reporters regarding when they first believed he would accept the managerial role. The consensus pointed to October 18, 2023, the day when The Athletic reported that the Giants were “closing in” on hiring him. Unprompted, Vitello shared his perspective on the series of events that unfolded, describing the moment as somewhat therapeutic.
“I’m just kind of having a conversation — therapy if you will,” he said, revealing that he had not yet made a final decision when the initial report surfaced. He recalled being in the midst of practice when his coaching staff began to express concern about the news.
“Somebody tweeted it out. I don’t know who told them. I wish I did,” he commented. “It might’ve changed the course of history if I would’ve known who did, to be honest with you.” Vitello expressed frustration over the situation, highlighting how misinformation can lead to unnecessary turmoil.
After addressing the initial report, Vitello noted that it did not definitively state he was hired, but rather suggested the Giants were close to making an offer. He was quick to clarify, acknowledging he bore no ill will towards the media coverage. “Can’t change the past, and the present is pretty exciting because day two of having all the guys around,” he said.
Vitello recounted the evening of October 18, when he visited the home of his colleague Quentin Eberhardt to watch a college football game featuring Tennessee against No. 9 Alabama. Despite his efforts to focus on the game, he found himself distracted by the news ticker displaying his name.
“That was not a fun Saturday, and then it kind of affected how the next few days went,” Vitello remarked. Following a quiet Sunday, he met with Giants president of baseball operations Buster Posey and general manager Zack Minasian on October 20, realizing the opportunity to transition from college to professional baseball was becoming increasingly likely.
On October 21, during an intrasquad scrimmage, fans expressed their admiration for Vitello, prompting an emotional response from him. “I tried to pretend like the fans weren’t there, but the gesture evoked some tears,” he admitted. By October 22, Vitello held discussions with his coaching staff, ultimately deciding to accept the Giants’ offer, though he acknowledged that he would have taken the role regardless of their opinions.
“I told them, ‘I’m not selling my condo. I’m not going anywhere,’” Vitello said. He appreciated the support of his former team, although he lamented that he did not have the chance to say goodbye to everyone.
As the Giants prepare for the season, Vitello continues to reference his time with the Volunteers, who recently opened their season with a three-game sweep of Nicholls. He acknowledged the success of Tennessee’s program but emphasized that the Giants are focused on their own path.
“It’s probably time, after today, to divide the line in the sand,” he stated, indicating a desire to move forward with his new role.
In related news, the Giants announced that right-hander Joel Peguero will be limited to field work over the next week due to a tight left hamstring. Vitello described the situation as one that requires caution, adding, “I think it’s a deal where caution this time of year — and maybe it’s me hoping too — that it’s something he’s got to address, but nothing that’s long-term serious.”
Peguero, 28, is projected to be one of eight relievers on the Giants’ Opening Day roster. Last season, he recorded a 2.42 ERA over 22.1 innings as a rookie. As the team gears up for the upcoming season, Vitello remains focused on establishing a strong foundation as the new manager of the Giants.
