Overview
- Vitello launched his first major-league spring in Scottsdale with a tone‑setting meeting after making a rare direct jump from Tennessee to an MLB dugout.
- He built a mixed-experience staff — Jayce Tingler as bench coach, Ron Washington on infield, Frank Anderson and Justin Meccage guiding pitching, Jesse Chavez in the bullpen, and Hunter Mense on hitting — to pair new ideas with big-league know‑how.
- Players such as Logan Webb, Bryce Eldridge and Matt Chapman praised his energy and communication, describing a quick connection with the new manager.
- Vitello acknowledged a steep learning curve to the 162‑game schedule and said spring will clarify position battles and bullpen roles that are currently undefined.
- Opening Day is March 25 at Oracle Park against the Yankees in a Netflix broadcast that will showcase his MLB debut on a national stage.