As first reported by MLB.com, Ron Washington is back where he feels most at home on a major-league field, preparing for his 56th Spring Training as a coach with the San Francisco Giants.

Washington, 73, joins manager Tony Vitello’s staff as the club’s infield coach after stepping away from his managerial role with the Los Angeles Angels last June to undergo quadruple bypass heart surgery.

Now healthy and energized, Washington said returning to the game was always the goal.

“The only way I wouldn’t have been in the game is if the health challenges would have made that a fact,” Washington told MLB.com. “Once it was left up to me, you look at me. I’m right here.”

Vitello, known for his recruiting dating back to his tenure at the University of Tennessee, made Washington a priority addition.

Rather than immediately offering a position, Vitello built the relationship through consistent phone calls and even flew Washington to Nashville for lunch.

Eventually, Giants president of baseball operations Zack Minasian formalized the offer shortly after Thanksgiving.

Washington said the decision to accept was simple. After months of rebuilding his strength, he feels physically prepared to handle the demands of a full 162-game season.

“It’s been a happy time because I’ve gotten my strength to the point where I can come out here and do what I do,” Washington said. “It’ll get better as the year goes along. It’s not going to get worse.”

Before the Giants’ first full-squad workout, Washington delivered a succinct message to players: “Ready to listen, ready to learn and ready to apply.” He later praised Vitello’s leadership, noting the first-year skipper had already set the tone.

On the field, Washington’s expertise will be vital for an infield that includes Matt Chapman, Willy Adames, Luis Arraez, Rafael Devers, and Bryce Eldridge.

Washington has already begun working closely with Arraez at second base, emphasizing both physical reps and mental preparation. “He’s an athlete, and he wants it,” Washington said. “The physical part we’re going to do every day.”

As for Devers and Eldridge adjusting to first base, Washington has been encouraged. “They’re getting the work they need… and they’re showing improvement,” he said.

For Washington, the mission is simple: Teach, develop, and keep getting better just like a player in midseason form.

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