Over the past week, Tennessee baseball fans have been a bit worried due to not one, but two jobs opening up in the bigs. Yup, the San Francisco Giants and Atlanta Braves are in need of a new manager and they are both no question attractive jobs.
Seemingly out of nowhere, Tony Vitello was linked with both clubs. What? It raised plenty of eyebrows and it had people all over the state wondering if Tony V might end up being on the move before the 2026 campaign gets here.
Tony Vitello MLB rumors have arrived but Tennessee fans aren't too worried
We don't have to tell you that'd be a complete and total disaster for the program. Thankfully, it doesn't look like it's going to happen. Over the weekend, Vitello said via reporter Mike Wilson that he's seen the chatter surrounding his name and the MLB gigs, but that he's locked in with Tennessee:
Tony Vitello is aware that his name has been mentioned in connection with multiple vacant MLB manager jobs.
— Mike Wilson (@ByMikeWilson) October 5, 2025
The Tennessee baseball coach said he has not had any direct contact with MLB teams and is focused on the Vols.https://t.co/AmAc0nIc5X
Tony Vitello said he's locked in with Tennessee baseball despite MLB rumors popping up
“This job is a grind and our No. 1 focus this time of year is getting our team better and recruiting — and we are on the edge with some pretty impressive recruits,” Vitello said via Wilson.
“It will eventually get to you,” the Vols skipper added. “You hear it and it’s flattering. Basically, it is a compliment to our support staff and our players. ... That is what I consider it — a compliment."
If for whatever reason Vitello did make a move to Atlanta or San Francisco, no one would be able to blame him for that. Just like youngsters at the college level, Vitello has probably always dreamed of one day leading an MLB side.
At this time, though, he's locked in with the Vols and his focus is to keep crushing it out on the recruiting trail and to get this team prepared for what should be a memorable 2026 season. Back in 2024, Vitello won over countless hearts after helping the Vols win the first natty in UT history. He's ready to try and get that job done again and he's not going to let any outside noise impact his focus.