SF Giants' Vitello Stands Ground After Monday's Comments

Giants manager addresses contentious remarks about his Tennessee departure

Feb. 18, 2026 at 11:23pm by Ben Kaplan

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San Francisco Giants manager Tony Vitello began his media availability on Tuesday by addressing the controversial comments he made the previous day regarding his departure from the University of Tennessee. Vitello expressed disdain for the reporting leading up to his hiring by the Giants and stood by his previous statements, saying he was "not throwing this water bottle at anybody" and that he wished he knew who had leaked information about his hiring.

Why it matters

Vitello's comments highlighted the tensions and challenges that can arise when a high-profile coaching change occurs, particularly when details of the transition are reported before an official announcement is made. The situation also underscores the importance of clear communication and managing expectations during the hiring process.

The details

Vitello was hired as the Giants' manager in October 2025, just days after reports surfaced that the team was "closing in" on him for the position. On Monday, Vitello expressed frustration with the reporting, saying "Somebody tweeted it out. I don't know who told them. I wish I did. It might've changed the course of history if I would've known who did, to be honest with you." On Tuesday, Vitello clarified that he was referring to the "less than ideal circumstances" surrounding his departure from Tennessee, but said it ultimately did not impact his decision to join the Giants.

  • On October 18, 2025, The Athletic reported that the Giants were 'closing in' on Vitello as their new manager.
  • Four days later, on October 22, 2025, Vitello was officially hired as the Giants' 40th manager in franchise history.

The players

Tony Vitello

The new manager of the San Francisco Giants, who previously served as the head coach of the University of Tennessee baseball team.

Buster Posey

The Giants' legendary catcher, who is now part of the team's front office and was involved in Vitello's hiring.

Rafael Devers

A star player for the Boston Red Sox, who Vitello mentioned he would pay to watch in a hypothetical matchup against pitcher Robbie Ray.

Robbie Ray

A pitcher for the Seattle Mariners, who Vitello mentioned he would pay to watch in a hypothetical matchup against Rafael Devers.

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What they’re saying

“I think you've got to pick and choose your battles. Ain't no big deal to me. You can't change the past, and no one's going to convince me otherwise that all that was inappropriate. I'm worried about baseball. I'm not worried about all that.”

— Tony Vitello, Giants Manager (mercurynews.com)

“Always better to get it off your chest than let it fester. Although everyone knows I'm Italian, but I'm also Irish so pretty good at burying it way deep down inside.”

— Tony Vitello, Giants Manager (mercurynews.com)

What’s next

Vitello and the Giants will continue to prepare for the upcoming MLB season, with the team's first spring training game scheduled for February 24th.

The takeaway

Vitello's comments highlight the challenges that can arise when a high-profile coaching change occurs, particularly when details of the transition are reported before an official announcement is made. However, the veteran coach's willingness to address the situation directly and move forward suggests a level of maturity and professionalism that should serve him well as he takes on his new role with the Giants.