CLEVELAND – Terry Francona, now managing the Cincinnati Reds, returned to Cleveland and Progressive Field, a place that was his home for eleven seasons as manager of the Guardians. Francona, known for his scooter mobility in the past, joked about the changes in the stadium, including the renovation of the service area.
A Return with Memories and Rivalry
Francona’s return took place during a three-game series between the Reds and the Guardians. The manager, who led the Guardians for over a decade, said he felt “lost” while touring the renovated facilities.
The renovations of both clubhouses during the offseason tripled their original size.I got lost like three times. That’s the longest hallway I’ve seen in a clubhouse,” Francona commented. “I don’t think I’ve seen everything yet, I just don’t feel like putting ice on my knees. But from what I’ve seen in the stadium, it looks good.
Terry Francona
After the Reds’ 7-4 victory on Monday, the 66-year-old manager maintains an undefeated record against his former team, recalling that the Reds swept a three-game series last month in Cincinnati.
Francona, who is the franchise leader in wins (921) and games managed (1,678), led Cleveland to the playoffs six times. In 2016, the team reached the World Series, losing to the Chicago Cubs.Last year, Francona was a senior advisor to the Guardians, but made few visits to Cleveland so as not to interfere with the new manager and his team.
Francona also revealed that during the season, he really enjoyed watching baseball, paying special attention to the ends of games.There were a couple of times during the spring, two hours away, that I wanted to come, but I didn’t think it was the right thing to do,” Francona said. “I just thought the new staff here needed to do things. They don’t need me telling them how to do it or acting like I was going to tell them how to do it.
Terry Francona
The Guardians welcomed Francona with a one-minute video before the game.
Although Francona was happy to be back in Cleveland, his main focus was helping the Reds extend their winning streak.
In addition to Francona, several members of the Reds’ staff also returned to Cleveland, including bench coach Brad Mills and hitting coach Chris Valaika, who were part of Francona’s team in Cleveland. First base coach Collin Cowgill and Major League coach Mike Napoli also played for the franchise.I had 11 very fun years here and had great relationships. That never changes, but now we’re trying to find a way to beat them tonight. That’s why we’re here. That will never take away from how I feel about the people here,” he stated.
Terry Francona
Reds left fielder Will Benson, who hit four home runs during the sweep of the Guardians, was Cleveland’s first pick in 2016.
