Terry Francona’s decision to step down from his role with the Cleveland Guardians was a shocker.
He had been in charge of the team for 11 years before announcing his decision.
He claimed to be dealing with some health concerns, but now that he’s with the Cincinnati Reds, some speculated that it might have something to do with a feud with the organization.
However, that’s not the case.
Talking to Jayson Stark of The Athletic, the former manager admitted that he needed some time off, but that didn’t mean he had any ill feelings towards the game or even the organization.
“I didn’t leave because I was mad or hated the game. I just felt like I wasn’t doing my job right,” Francona said.
"I didn't leave because I was mad or I hated the game."
On the new Starkville, Terry Francona opens up on the path that led him back to the manager's office in Cincinnati.
Check out this clip from the new pod! pic.twitter.com/AN9EewPDrF
— Jayson Stark (@jaysonst) February 5, 2025
The Guardians weren’t at their best in his final season with the organization.
They finished the 2023 season with a disappointing 76-86 record and outside of the playoff race for the second time in three years.
He left the team with a 921-757 record and six postseason berths, including an AL pennant back in 2016.
He will now have his work cut out for him, joining a Reds team that hasn’t been to the playoffs in years and has more questions than answers on their roster.
Still, given his well-known résumé as a three-time Manager of the Year and two-time World Series champion, it’s easy to understand why the team gave him a call.
The Guardians, on the other hand, will hope to replicate last year’s success in Stephen Vogt’s first campaign with the organization.
This time, however, expectations will be even higher after a failed World Series trip last season.
NEXT: Insider Believes 1 Guardians Player Can Be Rookie Of The Year Candidate
