Even when things seem rough, the San Francisco Giants stay close as a group. Look no further than the light-hearted moment between Drew Gilbert and skipper Tony Vitello.
Los Gigantes haven’t had the start to their 2026 season that they hoped, but there could be signs that things could pick up.
Through 21 games, the Giants have posted a 9-12 record following their 7-6 win against the Washington Nationals after 12 innings on April 18. Matt Chapman hit an RBI single in the 12th inning to lift San Francisco to its third straight victory.
The vibes were high, especially for a team that needed a momentum booster. Outside of Chapman’s game-winning RBI, there was no moment better during the game than the moment shared between Giants skipper Vitello and outfielder Gilbert.
Gilbert returned to the lineup after being recalled. He suffered a shoulder injury during spring training that kept him from being listed on the Giants’ opening day roster.
During Saturday’s game, Vitello and Gilbert were seen on camera playfully shadow-boxing in the dugout.
As for who won the shadow match, Gilbert was all smiles, but judging the open looks he had, he’d probably have the higher scorecard if we’re keeping count.
Drew Gilbert returns
The two share a history as Gilbert played for Vitello at the University of Tennessee in 2022. Gilbert made his MLB debut for the Giants on August 8, 2025. Vitello is in his first year as a MLB manager. He joined the Giants in October 2025, becoming the first skipper with no previous professional experience. Vitello became the first college baseball coach to jump straight to the pros.
The Giants have one last matchup with the Nationals in their three-game series. Giants look to sweep Washington before going back home to the Bay to host another rendition of their storied rivalry with the Los Angeles Dodgers on April 21 to 23.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tony Vitello, Drew Gilbert play fight in dugout as Giants beat Nats
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