San Francisco Giants Weigh Tony Vitello College-to-MLB Manager Hire

Tennessee Vols head baseball coach Tony Vitello, who led the team to a national championship in 2024, has become a topic of speculation as a potential managerial candidate for MLB teams, notably the San Francisco Giants and Atlanta Braves, both of whom recently parted ways with their managers. Giants President of Baseball Operations Buster Posey declined to rule out considering an NCAA coach like Vitello, signaling some interest despite Vitello's lack of MLB playing or coaching experience. Posey, who took over the Giants' baseball operations in late 2024 and has made bold roster moves, is focused on hiring a manager obsessed with details and player development, but the Giants' managerial search is wide-ranging and includes other candidates such as Chicago Cubs bench coach Ryan Flaherty. While Vitello's popularity and success at the college level are notable, hiring a manager without MLB experience would be unprecedented and carries uncertainty regarding his transition to the major leagues. The Giants have invested heavily in a core group of players locked into long-term contracts, making the managerial role potentially attractive to candidates who believe in this core. The speculation around Vitello also permeates baseball media, including fantasy discussions and podcasts, underscoring the intrigue his candidacy has generated.