San Francisco Giants manager Tony Vitello made it clear ahead of Friday's game against the New York Yankees that consistency in the lineup remains more of a long-term goal than an immediate reality, as the club continues to evaluate its roster in the early stages of the season.

Speaking during his pregame press conference, Vitello emphasized that while a set lineup is ideal, the current phase calls for patience and flexibility.

“Ideally, you’d like to have guys come to the park every day knowing exactly where they’re at—position-wise, lineup-wise,” Vitello said. “But I don’t see that occurring for quite some time.”

Instead, the Giants are continuing to mix and match, searching for the right balance while giving players opportunities to find their rhythm.

“For now, looking for balance, looking for the guys to do their thing and get some repetitions for this current year,” he added. “Baseball is a sport where guys are consistently evolving… so kind of ebb and flow as we go.”

Vitello also pointed to the versatility at the top of the lineup, noting just how many combinations the coaching staff can deploy.

“Our first six guys in the order… you could come up with 72 different combinations with those six guys,” he said. “They’re interchangeable.”

Defensively, decisions are being made with both performance and development in mind. At first base, Vitello highlighted Casey Schmitt’s current edge while keeping the door open for Jerar Encarnación.

“Casey right now is probably a little ahead defensively,” Vitello said. “But Jerar… with his work and how big of a target he is, he’s certainly an added weapon at that position.”

Health remains a key factor shaping the lineup, particularly regarding Rafael Devers. While Devers is nearing a return to full defensive duties, the Giants are taking a cautious route.

“If he had to today, he definitely could,” Vitello said. “I know he’d be willing to. But for us, it’s more about communicating with the medical staff… and deciding what’s best for 162.”

Devers has continued to take ground balls and work defensively before games, but the organization is focused on long-term durability.

“If it was a playoff game, I think we’d do that,” Vitello added. “But for now, a little bit of future insight for him.”

On the pitching side, Vitello acknowledged that the team may take a non-traditional approach early due to scheduling quirks.

“There’s a good chance we mix and match a little bit different with those first five guys,” he said. “Let’s get through the first couple days and see where guys are at.”

Beyond the X’s and O’s, Vitello also reflected on the mental grind of the season, comparing it to his earlier days in baseball.

“You want a redo. You want to run it back,” he said. “The cool thing is… you still have an opportunity to win a series.”

Ultimately, the message remains consistent: The Giants are still finding their footing.

“We’re just trying to win a series,” Vitello said. “Break it up into chunks and keep moving forward.”

Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!

It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.

Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!