Terry Francona is back in the dugout with the Cincinnati Reds

In October 2023, Terry Francona was appointed as the manager of the Cincinnati Reds after recovering from significant health issues. Francona, known for his successful managerial career, including leading the Boston Red Sox to two World Series titles, faced a challenging period that led to his retirement at the end of the 2023 season. He underwent shoulder replacement surgery and double hernia surgery, which contributed to his decision to step down after 11 seasons with the Cleveland team. Prior to his hiring by the Reds, Francona had missed considerable time during the 2020 and 2021 seasons due to health complications, prompting an essential reflection on his effectiveness and enjoyment in the role. His return is marked by enthusiasm as he leads a talented young roster, including players like Elly De La Cruz, Hunter Greene, and Tyler Stephenson. Francona expresses a deep desire to contribute actively to the team's success rather than passively observing. He recognizes the differences between experiencing a game from the dugout compared to watching from the stands, emphasizing the limited perspective managers have when not directly engaged in the game. While excited to return, he is cautious about the physical demands of the role, humorously noting that he won’t be throwing batting practice to avoid health risks. With a record of 1,950 wins and 1,672 losses, Francona brings a wealth of experience and hopes to foster a competitive environment within the Reds as they strive for improvement under his leadership.