In a remarkable reunion, Tony Vitello and Jayce Tingler have joined the San Francisco Giants coaching staff, marking their first collaboration in over twenty years since their time at the University of Missouri. This partnership brings together the former player and coach duo, who have maintained a close bond since their college days.
Their connection dates back to a memorable evening in 2003 after the Missouri baseball team faced a loss in the NCAA Starkville Regional against Mississippi State. Following the game, they gathered at Harpo”s Bar and Grill in Columbia, where Tingler, then a senior, offered motivating words that have stuck with Vitello throughout the years. “He said, “You can be better than that guy.” I never forgot that,” Vitello recalled. Tingler added humorously, “Most of the days at Harpo”s I do not remember, but Tony”s always been different. He has always connected with people, players.”
Fast forward over two decades, and both men find themselves in San Francisco, where Vitello, stepping into his first major league dugout experience, relies on Tingler”s extensive background as his bench coach. Tingler, 45, has a wealth of knowledge gained from various roles in professional baseball, most recently serving as the bench coach for the Minnesota Twins under manager Rocco Baldelli. His prior experience includes managing the San Diego Padres and numerous positions within the Texas Rangers organization.
As they embark on this new journey, Tingler aims to assist Vitello in navigating the complexities of major league baseball. “If I could get vulnerable for a second, you need co-workers and you have to lean on people, but you also need a friend,” Vitello expressed. “Having someone who has experienced nearly every scenario in this game is invaluable on both a professional and personal level.”
Tingler”s diverse background, which includes roles from managing to serving as a field coordinator, positions him well to help Vitello cover potential blind spots during the upcoming spring training and regular season. He appreciates the support of other coaching staff members, including infield coach Ron Washington, who has previously worked alongside him in Texas.
As the two coaches prepare for the season, they remain focused on various strategies, including reviewing video footage to identify unusual plays. Tingler humorously remarked that the only person in baseball who understands every rule besides the umpires is the Dodgers” field coordinator, Bob Geren. He noted that they are continuously studying scenarios to ensure Vitello is well-prepared.
Reflecting on their college days, Vitello shared that he initially underestimated Tingler”s potential based on his physical stature at that time. “When I first met Jayce, I thought, “Who the hell is this guy?” It turned out he was our best player,” Vitello said, emphasizing the competitive spirit that defined their relationship.
Both coaches recognize the intensity they bring to the game, with Vitello”s approach described as lively and passionate. Tingler remarked on Vitello”s emotional nature, suggesting that his Italian and Irish heritage contributes to his spirited demeanor on the field. Despite the numerous responsibilities that come with their new roles, both men are delighted to reunite and channel their shared passion for baseball into their work with the Giants.
As they embark on this new chapter in their careers, Vitello and Tingler are eager to foster the same competitive spirit that has characterized their journey since their college days, ensuring that they continue to strive for excellence in the game.
