The San Francisco Giants are in a period of change, with Tony Vitello taking over as manager and a free agency period expected to involve pursuits for a starting pitcher and other additions on offense.
But while the Giants aren't going to spend big like their top competition in the Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets, they are looking for ways to improve the roster to contend in 2026.
For Vitello in his first season, adding experienced minds to the coaching staff could be a big help. According to USA Today insider Bob Nightengale, the Giants are making such an addition, adding an MLB lifer to the coaching staff as Vitello's infield coach.
Giants adding beloved MLB lifer to coaching staff
"Former Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington is finalizing a deal with the San Francisco Giants to be their major league infield coach." Nightengale writes. "Washington, an infield guru, could have the most impact of any free agent this winter with his expertise."
While Nightengale's second line might be a bit of an exaggeration, adding Washington to Vitello's staff is a quality addition for the Giants. While it's Vitello's team, adding someone with plenty of MLB experience is a nice plus for the first-time MLB manager.
Washington has been beloved by the team he's joined in his MLB career. With the Angels in 2024 and 2025, while they went 99-137 during his tenure, he was appreciated by his clubhouse in the process.
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Back when he managed the Texas Rangers from 2007 through 2014, Washington helped lead them to two AL Pennants and a 664-611 record.
He's not taking over as a manager in San Francisco; he's joining Vitello's staff as an infield coach to provide an experienced voice for an inexperienced manager.
Washington is 73 years old and one of the older coaches in Major League Baseball entering the 2026 season. He's a veteran presence for the rookie Vitello and should also help coach the infield in San Francisco.
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