Giants Near Deal to Hire Tony Vitello as Next Manager

The San Francisco Giants look ready to make one of the most unconventional hires in modern baseball. Franchise legend and top executive Buster Posey has his sights set on Tony Vitello, the dynamic head coach at the University of Tennessee.

Vitello transformed the Volunteers into a collegiate powerhouse, racking up three College World Series appearances in just five seasons. If he takes the leap straight from college to an MLB managerial post, it’d be rare—and honestly, pretty bold. That says a lot about Posey’s vision for shaking up the clubhouse culture.

Buster Posey’s Vision for the Giants

Since joining the Giants’ leadership, Buster Posey hasn’t been shy about pushing boundaries. He’s searching for a dynamic, charismatic leader who can fire up both the players and the fans.

Vitello’s known as a bold strategist and a master recruiter. That fits what Posey wants, even if it’s not the usual route to a big league manager’s seat.

Why Experience Isn’t Everything

Some critics point to Vitello’s lack of professional coaching experience. Posey seems to see that as an advantage, not a drawback.

In college baseball, Vitello attracts top talent, builds confidence, and creates a winning culture. Those skills cross over, no matter the level. His time at Tennessee shows he can handle pressure and get results.

Tony Vitello’s Collegiate Success

Vitello’s record is impressive. In just five seasons, he led Tennessee to:

He’s become one of the NCAA’s most respected coaches, grabbing national attention and big offers along the way. His current salary tops $3 million a year, making him one of the highest-paid college coaches anywhere.

Financial Considerations

Jumping to MLB would mean Vitello has to adjust to the pro game and negotiate a salary that matches his market value. The Giants would have to invest, but if his leadership sparks wins and more fan excitement, it could pay off.

Connections Between Tennessee and San Francisco

The Giants already have a few former Tennessee Volunteers in their system. That familiarity could help Vitello settle in and build trust right away in the clubhouse.

The Giants’ Other Options

Vitello seems to be the frontrunner, but Posey and the Giants have looked at other candidates too. Some names in the mix include:

These candidates bring different levels of MLB experience. Still, none really combine Vitello’s charisma, recruiting chops, and fearless style.

A Potentially Historic Appointment

If the Giants hire Vitello, it’d be one of the rare jumps straight from college head coach to MLB manager. It’s a gamble, sure, but it shows Posey’s open to taking creative risks to chase long-term success.

The Risk and Reward Factor

Let’s be honest—skipping the usual minor-league or bench coach path is risky. Still, sometimes the biggest rewards come from bold moves.

Vitello’s got a reputation for turning programs around. He knows how to fire up his players, so maybe the Giants just want to shake things up and see what happens.

Vitello hasn’t confirmed anything, but the rumors have sparked a lot of chatter in the baseball world. If Posey’s gamble works, maybe more teams will start looking at college coaches for big league jobs.

If Tony Vitello ends up leading the Giants, fans might see a different style of baseball—more swagger, more grit, and maybe a little chaos. Honestly, that could be exactly what this team needs right now.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Giants closing in on hiring Tennessee coach Tony Vitello as next manager: Sources