Could Tony Vitello’s Hall-of-Fame Connection Lead Him to the Giants?

In the upcoming Game 3 of the World Series, Max Scherzer will take the mound for the Toronto Blue Jays. His former coach, Tony Vitello, now the San Francisco Giants’ manager, will be closely observing the game. Their connection runs deep, originating from their shared roots in St. Louis and their time at the University of Missouri.

Tony Vitello’s Influence on Scherzer

During their time at Missouri, Vitello coached Scherzer, aiding him in becoming the Big 12 Pitcher of the Year in 2025. This mentorship helped propel Scherzer into the major leagues as a first-round draft pick.

Scherzer’s Impressive Career and Free Agency

As Scherzer prepares to enter free agency, the possibility of reuniting with Vitello in San Francisco is generating buzz. In a recent interview, Scherzer expressed his positivity towards Vitello’s new role with the Giants. He stated, “I’m just so happy for him. I’ve known the fire in him and the passion he has.”

• Scherzer recently turned 41 years old.
• He faced injuries in both the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
• His career includes two World Series titles, three Cy Young Awards, and eight All-Star selections.

Giants’ Recent Pitching Strategy

The Giants previously opted for veteran Justin Verlander in hopes of boosting their rotation, but the results were mixed. Verlander, who struggled with injuries, concluded his season with a 4-11 record and a 3.85 ERA over 29 starts.

Considerations for Scherzer’s Return

San Francisco’s baseball operations, led by Buster Posey, face a crucial decision regarding Scherzer. A severe thumb injury restricted him to just a handful of starts in 2025. If the Giants find value in signing Scherzer, a one-year contract similar to Verlander’s might be a fitting option.

The Potential Reunification at the Giants

If Scherzer chooses to continue his career, a return to the Giants under Vitello could signify a major opportunity for both. As Vitello embarks on his managerial journey, a collaboration with the seasoned pitcher could help break the Giants’ playoff drought.

As the World Series unfolds, the relationship between these two might influence Scherzer’s future, with the potential for an impactful reunion in San Francisco.