Tony Vitello brings energy as SF Giants manager

Tony Vitello, hired from the University of Tennessee, spent spring training working closely with Giants players and staff and helped produce a strong Cactus League record while building ties with front-office leaders.

Tony Vitello is the new manager of the San Francisco Giants and spent spring training working directly with players and staff. He arrived after a successful run at the University of Tennessee, where his teams were known for intensity and a lively clubhouse culture. During camp he took a hands-on role in drills and practices and spent time with players away from the ballpark. Some regular-season management questions remain and will be seen in live games. Key points: - Vitello was hired from college, making a direct jump from the University of Tennessee to lead an MLB team. - Players and staff in spring training described his energy and personality as energizing and pushing teammates to improve. - The Giants had the second-best record in Cactus League play during his first spring with the club. - Vitello participated directly in practice routines, used music in drills, and engaged in informal discussions with players. - He has built working relationships with front-office executives, including Buster Posey and GM Zack Minasian, and referred to the group as "The Four Horsemen Upstairs." Summary: Vitello’s arrival shifted the clubhouse atmosphere during spring training and drew positive comments from teammates and executives. How his style translates to regular-season decisions such as bullpen management is undetermined at this time.