As the San Francisco Giants prepare for the upcoming MLB Draft, the organization finds itself in a unique position. With the recent hiring of manager Tony Vitello, the front office has gained a deep-bench perspective on the collegiate talent pipeline at the University of Tennessee. For a franchise that has already demonstrated a clear affinity for Volunteers talent—evidenced by the acquisitions of Drew Gilbert and Blade Tidwell, as well as the selection of prospects like Gavin Kilen—the draft presents an opportunity to bridge the gap between Knoxville and the Bay Area.
While the Giants’ scouting department maintains its own rigorous evaluation protocols, the transition of Vitello to the professional ranks naturally invites speculation regarding which prospects he might advocate for. Among the most intriguing 2 Tennessee players Tony Vitello would love for SF Giants to take in the MLB Draft are right-handed pitcher Tegan Kuhns and third baseman Henry Ford. Both players have demonstrated the high-ceiling potential that fits the profile of a modern, data-driven organization looking to bolster its farm system.
The Case for Tegan Kuhns: A Rising Arm
Pitching remains a perennial priority for the Giants and Tegan Kuhns has emerged as a compelling candidate to bolster the organization’s depth. The right-hander’s collegiate journey has been one of significant development. While his 2025 campaign under Vitello saw him navigate a 5.40 ERA, the underlying metrics suggested a pitcher on the verge of a breakthrough. During that span, he recorded 40 strikeouts against 16 walks over 36 2/3 innings.
Kuhns’ trajectory shifted noticeably during his time in the Cape Cod League, a developmental circuit known for testing the mettle of top college prospects. His 1.35 ERA across three starts served as a proof-of-concept for his improved command, and velocity. That momentum carried into the current collegiate season, where he has posted a 3.13 ERA through 72 innings. Most importantly, his command has stabilized significantly, with 95 strikeouts against just 13 walks, demonstrating the kind of strike-throwing ability that typically translates well to the professional level.
Given his current projection, some analysts suggest Kuhns could be a candidate for the first round. Should he remain on the board when the Giants are on the clock at pick No. 29—a selection acquired via the trade sending Patrick Bailey to the Cleveland Guardians—the front office may view him as a high-value asset. His ability to maintain velocity while sharpening his secondary offerings makes him a logical fit for an organization that prioritizes efficient, high-strikeout pitching profiles.
Henry Ford’s Power Profile
If the Giants are looking to add impact potential to their infield, Henry Ford represents a different, yet equally enticing, profile. A transfer from the University of Virginia, Ford has quickly acclimated to the high-pressure environment of the Tennessee program. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 220 pounds, he possesses the physical frame that scouts often associate with middle-of-the-order power.
Throughout the 2026 season, Ford has been a consistent offensive presence, slashing .290/.350/.570 with 16 home runs and 50 RBIs. While he has primarily manned the hot corner, the professional consensus often leans toward a move to left field as he matures. His transition to the professional ranks will likely hinge on his ability to maintain his plate discipline as he faces advanced pitching, but his raw power ceiling is undeniable.
For the Giants, the prospect of drafting a player who has already navigated the rigors of an elite SEC program under Vitello’s tutelage offers a level of familiarity that is rare in the draft process. While Ford is projected to be available later in the draft than Kuhns, his arrival in the minor league system could provide a much-needed boost to the organization’s home run production. The following table summarizes the key metrics for these two prospects.
| Player | Position | Key 2026 Metric | Draft Projection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tegan Kuhns | RHP | 3.13 ERA / 95 Ks | Late 1st Round |
| Henry Ford | 3B/OF | 16 HR / .570 SLG | Mid-to-Late Rounds |
Organizational Strategy and the Vitello Factor
the Giants’ draft strategy is not dictated by a single person. The organization employs a robust scouting department that evaluates hundreds of players annually. However, the presence of a manager with Vitello’s specific historical knowledge of these athletes creates a unique internal dynamic. When the Giants decide between two similarly graded prospects, the “insider” information provided by a coach who has seen these players handle failure, success, and high-stakes coaching, becomes an invaluable tie-breaker.
The 2 Tennessee players Tony Vitello would love for SF Giants to take in the MLB Draft are not just reflections of his past success; they are representations of the type of high-motor, high-ceiling talent that the Giants have targeted in recent years. Whether the team chooses to pull the trigger on either player will depend on how the board falls on draft day and which positions the front office deems most critical to their long-term competitive window.
The upcoming MLB Draft, scheduled to take place in the coming months, will serve as the first major test of this collaborative approach between the coaching staff and the front office. As the draft date approaches, the organization will continue to conduct private workouts and background interviews to finalize their board. Readers are encouraged to keep an eye on official updates from MLB.com regarding draft order adjustments and player eligibility status as the event nears. We welcome your thoughts on how the Giants should approach this year’s class in the comments section below.
