KANSAS CITY — With their season effectively out of reach, the San Francisco Giants appear to be embracing a more aggressive approach on the basepaths, a shift encouraged by manager Tony Vitello as a way to reignite the team’s competitive edge.

Currently 18 games below .500 with a 42-60 record and trailing the NL West-leading Los Angeles Dodgers by 22½ games, the Giants have shown signs of playing with a “nothing to lose” mentality recently. That was especially evident during their latest attempts at stealing bases, which have been successful in all 12 tries across 16 games this month, matching the franchise’s most steals in a single month.

Vitello acknowledged that the team’s earlier caution on the bases was tied to the organization’s pride and the roster’s talent, which may have made players hesitant to “flip the switch” toward a more daring style. “We’ve tried to be more aggressive,” Vitello said, noting that coaches have been signaling players to initiate steals more often.

Interestingly, the recent successful steals were neither prompted by coaching directives nor executed by standout speedsters. Bryce Eldridge and Daniel Susac, who rank among the slowest Giants measured by sprint speed, independently chose to run and both swiped second base safely. Eldridge, who recorded his first career stolen base without needing to slide, pointed out that opposing players often underestimate him on the bases, which he intends to capitalize on going forward.

Susac’s steal was more eventful; he slid awkwardly into second base, scraping his hand and drawing some lighthearted teasing from teammates. He explained the decision by observing a slower first pitch and a long pitcher’s delivery time, deciding to take a calculated risk despite lacking elite speed. Vitello praised this initiative, emphasizing the value of smart, assertive base running even if not perfectly executed.

Both steals occurred in late-game situations with runners trying to advance and create scoring opportunities, though neither translated into a run. After Eldridge’s steal, for example, a sacrifice bunt by Jesus Rodriguez helped move the runner into scoring position.

This newfound willingness to take independent action on the bases aligns with recent team meetings, where leaders urged teammates not to wait for coaching signals before attempting plays such as bunts or steals. Vitello emphasized that this mindset—playing looser and more confidently—could help the Giants finish the season stronger and potentially build momentum heading into next year.

While postseason hopes have faded, the coaching staff believes cultivating a more carefree but intelligent style of play remains an important developmental goal. “You’re not playing like you have nothing to lose because you don’t care,” Vitello said. “But a little bit more of a loose and carefree approach could benefit us moving forward.”