Ex-Giants Pitcher Criticizes KNBR Over ‘Most-Hated’ Executive and Vitello Hire

Former major league pitcher Mike LaCoss phoned into KNBR’s morning show this week to deliver sharp criticism of the San Francisco Giants’ leadership. Filmogaz.com’s Alex Simon reported the call to The Murph & Markus Show with hosts Brian Murphy and Markus Boucher.

Radio call and background

LaCoss identified himself as “Mike in San Francisco.” The hosts were initially unsure who had joined the line. He spent 14 seasons in the majors, with his final six years in San Francisco from 1986 to 1991.

Reaction to the Vitello hire

LaCoss expressed strong disapproval of the club hiring Tony Vitello from the University of Tennessee. He argued the move bypassed experienced minor-league managers and long-time major-league bench coaches. LaCoss also criticized Vitello’s demeanor at his first big press conference and warned it could worsen if losses mount.

Attack on front-office leadership

He did not stop at the manager. LaCoss accused the organization of retaining what he called “the most hated executive in Major League Baseball.” He later confirmed to Filmogaz.com’s Alex Simon that he was referring to team president and CEO Larry Baer. LaCoss said he despises Baer, who has been with the franchise since 1992.

Context and early-season fallout

The Giants opened the 2026 season by getting swept in a three-game series by the New York Yankees. That rough start adds urgency to public critiques of the club. Headlines and social posts have echoed the episode, with pieces titled Ex-Giants Pitcher Criticizes KNBR Over ‘Most-Hated’ Executive and Vitello Hire.

LaCoss said he did not root for Vitello to fail. But he suggested change at the top is necessary for the team to recover. If the skid continues, more heated calls to local radio are likely.