Two-time World Series champion Terry Francona has officially agreed to a three-year contract to manage the Cincinnati Reds, with a club option for the 2028 season.
The 65-year-old Francona recently stepped down from his role as manager of the Cleveland Guardians after the 2023 season. Over his 23-year managerial career, which includes stints with the Philadelphia Phillies (1997-2000), Boston Red Sox (2004-2011), and the Indians/Guardians (2013-2023), he achieved a record of 1,950 wins and 1,672 losses, giving him a winning percentage of .538.
Francona also has a personal connection to the Reds, having played 102 games as an outfielder and first baseman for the team in 1987.
“I am thrilled and honored to be joining an organization with such a rich tradition and history as the Cincinnati Reds,” Francona stated. “Although I only played one season here in 1987, I quickly realized that Cincinnati is a fantastic baseball city. I want to express my gratitude to Reds principal owner Bob Castellini, president of baseball operations Nick Krall, and general manager Brad Meador for this opportunity. I’m eager to start connecting with our talented young players.”
Francona takes over from David Bell, who managed the Reds for six seasons, posting a record of 409 wins and 456 losses (.473). Bell’s only playoff appearance came during the shortened 2020 season, where the Reds were swept by the Atlanta Braves in the wild-card round.
In his inaugural season with the Red Sox in 2004, Francona led the team to its first World Series title since 1918 and added another championship in 2007. He also guided the Cleveland franchise to the World Series in 2016, where they narrowly lost to the Chicago Cubs in seven games. Francona holds the record for the most wins in Cleveland history with 921.
“Terry is a future Hall of Fame manager with a proven track record of winning with young talent,” said Krall. “I am incredibly excited that he chose to join us, and I believe he is the perfect fit to help us pursue a championship.”
Francona becomes the 65th manager in Reds history and the 55th since 1900. The Reds have not won a World Series title since 1990.
“Terry’s impressive resume speaks for itself,” Castellini remarked. “He is an exceptional manager who will drive our team forward. The entire Reds organization and fans across Reds Country are excited to welcome Terry to Cincinnati.”
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