The San Francisco Giants officially turned the page to a new era on Thursday morning, introducing Tony Vitello as the 40th manager in franchise history during a press conference at Oracle Park. Surrounded by family, front office executives, and Giants legends, Vitello expressed both humility and determination as he embarks on his first Major League managerial opportunity.

The event opened with Giants Vice President of Media Relations Matt Chisholm, who welcomed the Vitello family and acknowledged key organizational figures, including President of Baseball Operations Buster Posey, General Manager Zach Minasian, and members of the ownership group.

Posey, who played a leading role in the managerial search, praised Vitello’s leadership qualities and ability to connect across all levels of the game.

“When we first started talking to Tony, it was abundantly clear that he’s a natural leader,” Posey said. “You make calls to people who’ve been around him, and the feedback is all the same — this guy’s a winner. He’s a motivator, a teacher, and someone who knows how to build culture.”

Posey emphasized that Vitello’s impact would reach far beyond the clubhouse, shaping the organization’s culture and inspiring the fan base.

“A Dream Come True — Just a Recent One”

When Vitello took the podium, he was characteristically candid and heartfelt, tracing his unlikely path from the college ranks to the major leagues.

“People keep telling me I’m living out my dream,” Vitello said with a smile. “But honestly, I never dreamed of being a Major League player — my skill level wasn’t that high. Coaching became my calling, and this dream of managing in the big leagues is a recent one. I’m incredibly humbled and blessed to have this opportunity.”

Vitello’s coaching journey began at the collegiate level, where he earned a reputation for player development, energy, and competitive fire. Those same traits, Posey noted, made him an ideal fit for a Giants organization seeking a modern, player-driven culture.

Vitello spoke with reverence for Giants history — invoking names like Bruce Bochy, Dusty Baker, Madison Bumgarner, Sergio Romo, Barry Bonds, Willie Mays, and Tim Lincecum — while also pointing to the club’s defining values.

“There’s a tradition of toughness, loyalty, and family here,” Vitello said. “Those standards are incredibly high, and I’m aware of the challenge that comes with meeting them. But that’s what excites me most — the chance to honor that tradition and move it forward.”

He also recalled hearing stories about the culture built by players such as Hunter Pence, whose leadership and compassion for younger teammates left an impression on Vitello long before he arrived in San Francisco.

“One of my former players came up during Hunter’s playing days and told me how good that guy was to everyone in the organization,” Vitello said. “That’s the kind of culture I want to continue to build here.”

A New Chapter Begins

The hiring of Vitello, long considered one of college baseball’s brightest minds, marks a bold step for a Giants organization seeking renewed energy and identity. His emphasis on accountability, teaching, and connection aligns with Posey’s vision of building sustainable success from the clubhouse outward.

As the press conference concluded, Vitello kept his message simple — no promises, no guarantees, just an unwavering commitment to doing things the right way.

“All I want to do is a good job,” Vitello said. “I’ve been blessed to be around winning people my whole life, and those standards will guide everything I do here.”