San Francisco Giants target Gary Pettis as third-base coach

The San Francisco Giants are in talks to hire veteran coach Gary Pettis as their permanent third-base coach. Pettis, a 68‑year‑old Oakland native with a decade of experience with the Houston Astros and eight seasons with the Texas Rangers, is being considered after the brief tenures of Hector Borg and interim coach Ron Wotus. Manager Tony Vitello said the club is “definitely close” to an agreement, though no official announcement has been made.

The coaching change comes as the Giants struggle offensively, posting the lowest base‑running percentage in Major League Baseball. The team hopes to improve speed on the bases with newcomer Jonah Cox, a fast outfielder who debuted recently. General manager Zack Minasian said, “Over time, absolutely,” Cox’s speed could be impactful, and the Giants are evaluating how best to use him in the lineup. The combination of a new third‑base coach and a potential base‑running upgrade reflects the franchise’s effort to address its poor stolen‑base numbers and overall offensive production.