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Tony Vitello receives strong backing on his first day as Giants manager
Summary
On his first day in the San Francisco Giants dugout at Scottsdale Stadium, Tony Vitello met with players and reporters and received public support from Matt Chapman and the club's president Buster Posey while questions remain about the team's bullpen.
Content
Tony Vitello arrived at Scottsdale Stadium on Tuesday for his first day as the San Francisco Giants' manager, taking a seat in the major-league dugout and speaking with reporters and players. He wore the orange jersey under a sweatshirt, which the story notes was the first professional uniform he has worn to work. Vitello discussed competition for jobs, the state of the pitching staff, and several players who want to prove themselves as the season begins. He is replacing long-time manager Bob Melvin and faces the task of earning buy-in from veteran major-league players.
Key facts:
- Vitello met with reporters and players in the dugout on Tuesday and spoke about opportunity and competition within the roster.
- The story notes this was the first time Vitello wore a professional uniform to work and that he was a college coach before joining the Giants.
- Vitello commented on specific roster situations, including the bullpen and Luis Arraez, saying the club has "a lot of people that need to prove something to some folks."
- Matt Chapman, the team's veteran third baseman and informal leader, publicly expressed support and told Vitello he is "all in." Chapman also said he had spoken with Bob Melvin this offseason.
- Giants president Buster Posey led the hiring process and emphasized the importance of veteran buy-in as Vitello settles into the role.
- The state of the bullpen was highlighted as a tougher challenge for the new manager.
Summary:
Vitello's first day featured visible backing from a key veteran and the front office, setting a tone of cautious continuity as he transitions from college to the major-league clubhouse. The immediate impact centers on building trust with established players and addressing questions about the pitching staff. Undetermined at this time.
