Overview
- Maddon made the remarks on KNBR in San Francisco, saying the move suggests MLB managers no longer need pro-level experience.
- He cited a long-standing “rite of passage” that once required years in the minors, scouting, and riding buses before landing a big-league job.
- Despite his criticism, Maddon said he has been impressed by what he has seen of Vitello and wished him nothing but the best.
- Vitello was hired directly from the University of Tennessee, where he won the 2024 College World Series, and has been described as the first MLB manager with no prior professional experience.
- San Francisco turned to Vitello after parting ways with Bob Melvin following the 2025 season.