KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — It's time to say goodbye to one of the leading figures in Tennessee sports.

The San Francisco Giants announced that it is finalizing a deal to make Tennessee baseball coach Tony Vitello the Giants' new manager. This makes Vitello, 47 the first person to ever go from a college coach to a Major League manager without professional experience. The Giants explained that the team already has ties to the Volunteers with some of its players being drafted from Tennessee. Vitello replaces Bob Melvin who was dismissed in September.

"Prior to Vitello's arrival at Tennessee, the Volunteers had gone more than a decade without an appearance in the NCAA Tournament," the Giants said. "Vitello has helped turn the program around, culminating with its first national championship in 2024."

Tennessee Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Danny White released a statement congratulating Vitello, wishing him the best, and thanking him for all he did to "transform Tennessee baseball into a championship program."

"The growth of baseball on Rocky Top has been remarkable, culminating in the 2024 National Championship. We are committed to continuously investing in the program at a championship level across all areas. Furthermore, the upcoming $109 million renovation of Lindsey Nelson Stadium will transform it into one of the premier baseball venues, providing an exceptional experience for the best fans in all of sports.

Our focus is on our players and coaching staff while finalizing the next steps in this evolving process."

Danny White

6 News previously reported that there were reports of the Giants "closing in" on hiring Vitello, who has been the Vols head coach for eight years. After winning the national title, Vitello was given a contract extension that made him the highest paid college baseball coach at the time.

Vitello ends his stint at Tennessee with a 341-131 record, a .722 winning percentage.

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/sports/tennessee-volunteers/tony-vitello-accepts-deal-to-become-manager-of-the-san-francisco-giants/