The Cincinnati Reds have reportedly made a significant move, bringing in veteran manager Terry Francona to helm the team. According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, Francona is coming out of retirement to take the Reds’ managerial reins, with an official announcement expected as soon as Friday.
Francona, 65, recently managed the Cleveland Guardians, stepping down following the 2023 season. He’s best known for his time with the Boston Red Sox, where he led the team to two World Series titles in 2004 and 2007, breaking an 86-year championship drought. He also guided Cleveland to the 2016 World Series, where they lost to the Chicago Cubs in a thrilling seven-game series.
This hiring marks a major shift for Cincinnati, as Francona replaces David Bell, who was fired less than two weeks ago. The Reds, coming off a disappointing 2024 campaign where they finished fourth in the NL Central, are hoping Francona can inject some life into the franchise.
Francona’s arrival brings instant credibility to a team that desperately needs it. The Reds have only had three winning seasons and one playoff appearance in the past 11 years, with that lone postseason berth coming in the shortened 2020 season during MLB’s expanded playoff format. Francona’s experience and success could be just what the Reds need to change their fortunes.
The Reds are anchored by rising star Elly De La Cruz, one of the brightest young talents in baseball. However, to compete in the National League Central, the Reds will need to make additional moves to bolster their roster. While hiring Francona isn’t a cure-all for Cincinnati’s struggles, it’s a strong first step in signaling a commitment to turning things around.
The NL Central remains an open division with no dominant team in recent years, making it ripe for the taking. With Francona’s leadership, the Reds could be on their way to a brighter future. Time will tell if the front office will build on this bold hire and give the team the resources to contend.
