The first managerial vacancy of the offseason has been filled by the Reds, as Terry Francona is returning to the Majors after a year off. Francona stepped down from the helm as Guardians manager after the 2023 for health reasons. Now, he’ll take over a Reds team that won 77 games last year, five wins fewer than 2023.
Per MLB.com, the Reds have decided on Francona. Cincinnati has not confirmed the move.
Terry Francona brings a wealth of experience to the Reds. Francona won two World Series (2004, 2007) with the Boston Red Sox and the 2016 American League pennant with the Indians/Guardians. Cleveland won four AL Central titles under Francona’s tenure.
The 65-year-old left the Guardians’ manager position after the 2023 campaign for health reasons. Cleveland hired former Major League Stephen Vogt to replace him, who in turn led the Guardians to their second division title in three seasons in 2024.
Francona stated he didn’t forsee himself managing again. However, Francona did not retire and left the door open for a potential return. Now, he’ll reportedly head downstate in Ohio to manage the Reds.
The new Reds manager will inherit a roster full of young talent. Cincinnati’s roster includes ace pitcher Hunter Greene, who struck out 169 over 150.1 IP and led the National League in bWAR (6.3) among pitchers. Their pitching staff also includes strikeout pitcher Nick Lodolo, who had multiple stints on the IL in 2024.
The Reds’ offense includes big bats in Spencer Steer and Elly De La Cruz, the latter of whom hit 25 home runs and stole 67 bases in 2024.
The Reds also have other youngsters in Matt McLain and Christian Encarnacion-Strand. Both McLain and Encarancion-Strand had great rookie campaigns in 2023 and posted OPS figures above .800. But, both were limited in 2024 due to injury. In McLain’s case, he didn’t play a game in 2024.
Francona’s pending hire marks the first filled managerial vacancy this offseason. When this hire becomes official, the Marlins and White Sox’s managerial spots will be the two remaining openings.