Overview
- Vitello said initial reports on Oct. 18 that the Giants were closing in on hiring him appeared before he had made a final decision, with the official announcement coming days later.
- The Athletic reported the Giants were near a deal while ESPN reported he had not decided, and some Tennessee outlets then suggested he was leaving, escalating confusion.
- He recounted that assistants reacted during a Tennessee practice, which led him to address the team despite trying to keep speculation away from players and recruits.
- Speaking at spring training in Scottsdale, Vitello joked about curbing his Tennessee references and described a positive early tone in camp.
- The Giants announced right-hander Joel Peguero will be limited to field work for about a week due to a tight left hamstring as he competes for an Opening Day spot.