If San Francisco Giants fans wanted a sign that things were going to change under Tony Vitello’s leadership, then they got some big-time news on Thursday.
According to a report from longtime baseball reporter Bob Nightengale of USA Today, longtime MLB manager and former player Ron Washington is joining the Giants as a major-league coach.
“Former Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington is finalizing a deal with the San Francisco Giants to be their major league infield coach,” Nightengale wrote in a post on X on Thursday. “Washington, an infield guru, could have the most impact of any free agent this winter with his expertise.”
Washington recently served as manager of the Los Angeles Angels, but was let go after last season. Washington spent a chunk of time away from his role with the Angels last season due to heart surgery.
Why would the Giants bring Washington on to the first-year Giants manager’s staff?
He’s known to be a guru, a savant if you will, when it comes to working with infielders. Washington has worked closely with many MLB infielders, helping them learn the nuances and basics of infield work.
Whether it’s about pivoting or turning a double play, improving the defense, or making sure the corners are covered well, Washington brings a wealth of knowledge and wisdom to the Bay Area.
Washington managed the Texas Rangers between 2007-14, leading the Rangers to two American League championships during his tenure. He spent the last two seasons as the Angels’ manager. Before taking over the managerial role with the Angels, Washington spent some time as a coach for Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker’s staff.
Washington was part of Snitker’s staff when the Braves beat the Houston Astros for a World Series championship. Other MLB coaching stops for Washington included time in the minor leagues for the New York Mets and some time as a coach for the Athletics.
As an MLB player, Washington is most connected with the Minnesota Twins, where he played with the likes of Kent Hrbek, Gary Gaetti, and Frank Viola.
Look for Washington to have an immediate impact on getting the Giants’ infielders ready and prepared for whatever they face in games. Signing Washington is a solid step forward for an organization that wants to be back in the hunt for a National League West Division crown.
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