It didn’t take long for Terry Francona to find his way back to the game he loves. And for anyone who knows him, that’s no surprise.
According to multiple reports, the former Cleveland Guardians skipper will soon take over as manager of the Cincinnati Reds — just months after stepping away from the Guardians. For Francona, baseball isn’t just a career; it’s oxygen.
During his 11 memorable seasons in Cleveland, Francona lived and breathed the sport — literally residing downtown, riding his scooter to Progressive Field, and spending nearly every waking moment at the ballpark. But the grind took its toll. Battling serious health issues — from heart problems to a staph infection in his foot — Francona announced in August 2023 that he would retire at season’s end. At the time, he faced shoulder reconstruction surgery and operations for two hernias, admitting he felt worn down and unable to give his all without putting excess strain on his coaching staff.
Even so, insiders knew the fire was still there. With a résumé boasting nine winning seasons, six playoff appearances, and a trio of Manager of the Year awards — not to mention a pair of World Series titles from his Boston years — Francona’s name still carried weight in every front office.
After a year spent recovering and advising the Guardians, the itch to manage returned. And now, at 65, Francona steps into the Reds’ dugout, inheriting a young, talented roster in a familiar small-market environment. Fittingly, the Reds even share the Guardians’ spring training complex in Goodyear, Arizona.
For Francona, the move isn’t just about leading another team — it’s about coming home to the rhythm, challenge, and joy that only the game of baseball can provide. For fans across Ohio and beyond, it’s going to be good — really good — to have “Tito” back.
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