While many talking heads question new Giants manager Tony Vitello’s coaching experience, one World Series-winning manager sees no issue. 

Bruce Bochy, former Giants manager and newly appointed special advisor to baseball operations, explained his confidence in Vitello’s ability in an interview on KNBR’s “Murph and Markus” show.  

“I can tell you this, he knows the game, man. He’s smart,” Bochy said. “He’s worn a lot of hats. He’s been a coach. He’s been a pitching coach. It wasn’t an easy road to get to being the head coach of Tennessee. I mean, he grinded his way up to where he got there, and he’s earned this, I think, when you look at the success that he’s had.” 

Bochy said he recently met with Vitello in Nashville, Tennessee. Despite the two having just a few conversations, Bochy is thoroughly impressed with the Giants’ new skipper. 

“And just to me, he’s got a great way about him,” Bochy explained.  “You know, [he] speaks well. He’s got a great feel for people, and to me, that’s the most important job that he’ll have is managing his people, and he’s so good at that. And so, I really think he’s going to have a lot of success in the major leagues.” 

Vitello’s interpersonal skills were a part of what stood about to president of baseball operations Buster Posey when conducting the search for the new Giants manager. Bochy seems to agree that Vitello has what it takes to lead the group. 

Nevertheless, Vitello’s jump to MLB surely will provide its challenges. Bochy was asked what the biggest challenge will be in that jump from college baseball. 

“I’d say more than anything, it’s just the number of games. You’re talking 162 games, and hopefully more,” Bochy said. 

The former Giants manager was known for his bullpen management, leading San Francisco to three World Series titles. Bochy highlighted that as a large focus in the longer seasons. 

“In college, I’m sure you got your horses out there and every game you’re doing all you can to win every game, similar to what the [MLB] postseason is once you get there,” Bochy noted. “But during a regular season, you got to remember, man, it’s a long season. It’s a grind. You got to watch your horses. You got to take care of them so they’re fresh down the stretch.” 

With advisors such as Bochy on his side, Vitello is making the jump to MLB with an exceptional supporting cast. 

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