Giants Near Deal to Hire Tony Vitello as Manager

The San Francisco Giants are nearing a deal to hire Tony Vitello, the 47 year old head coach of the University of Tennessee, as their next major league manager, people familiar with the negotiations said. If finalized, the move would mark an unusual jump directly from a collegiate head-coaching post to a major league dugout. The team fired Bob Melvin after an 81-81 season and has been searching for a leader to reset its clubhouse and on-field identity.

Vitello, who said by text that "there is nothing to confirm," has built Tennessee into a national power since taking the job in 2018. He has a 341-131 record at Knoxville, led the Volunteers to a College World Series title in 2024 and guided them to three College World Series appearances over the past five seasons. His program also produced multiple recent draft picks and professional signees, including players now in the Giants organization.

Giants officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. People familiar with the talks said negotiations have advanced into late stages and an announcement could come soon. The club’s president of baseball operations, Buster Posey, has signaled a willingness to make...