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40 Facts About Terry Francona

Liz Perri

Written by Liz Perri

Published: 07 Oct 2024

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Source: Foxnews.com

Who is Terry Francona? Terry Francona, often called "Tito," is a legendary figure in Major League Baseball. Born on April 22, 1959, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, Francona has made a significant impact both as a player and manager. He played for teams like the Montreal Expos, Chicago Cubs, and Cleveland Indians. As a manager, he led the Boston Red Sox to two World Series titles and managed the Cleveland Indians/Guardians to an American League pennant. Known for his strategic mind and leadership, Francona has earned multiple Manager of the Year awards. His career is a testament to dedication, resilience, and love for the game.

Key Takeaways:

  • Terry Francona, also known as "Tito," comes from a rich baseball lineage and achieved success as both a player and manager, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
  • After a successful managerial career, Terry Francona faced health challenges but is set to return to the Cincinnati Reds, inheriting a team with promising young talent and aiming for future success.
Table of Contents
01Early Life and Background
02Playing Career
03Transition to Management
04Achievements and Awards
05Health and Resignation
06Young Talent and Future Prospects
07Legacy and Impact
08Terry Francona's Lasting Impact on Baseball

Early Life and Background

Terry Francona, affectionately known as "Tito," has a rich history that shaped his journey in Major League Baseball. Let's dive into his early years and family background.

  1. Birth and Early Life: Born on April 22, 1959, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, Terry Francona was destined for a life in baseball.

  2. Family Background: His father, Tito Francona, was a professional baseball player, playing in the major leagues from 1956 to 1970. This baseball lineage set the stage for Terry's future.

  3. Italian Heritage: Francona is of Italian descent, a heritage he proudly carries. His father's Italian roots influenced his early life and career.

  4. New Brighton Upbringing: Growing up in New Brighton, Pennsylvania, about 30 miles northwest of Pittsburgh, Terry's rural upbringing significantly influenced his early life and baseball career.

  5. Education: He attended New Brighton Area High School, where his passion for baseball first became evident.

Playing Career

Terry Francona's playing career spanned several teams and positions, showcasing his versatility and dedication to the sport.

  1. Drafting: In 1980, Francona was drafted by the Montreal Expos in the first round (22nd overall) of the MLB draft, marking the beginning of his professional journey.

  2. Major League Debut: He made his major league debut with the Montreal Expos on August 19, 1981, just a week after the end of that summer's player strike.

  3. Teams Played For: Throughout his playing career, Francona played for the Montreal Expos, Chicago Cubs, Cleveland Indians, Milwaukee Brewers, and Cincinnati Reds.

  4. Batting Statistics: Francona's batting average was .274, with 16 home runs and 143 RBIs over his career. He also had 12 stolen bases and played in 1,731 games.

  5. Positions Played: Primarily a first baseman and outfielder, he shifted to first base later in his career, playing more games there than in the outfield.

Transition to Management

After retiring as a player, Francona transitioned into coaching and management, where he truly made his mark.

  1. Managerial Career: Francona spent several years in the Chicago White Sox organization before becoming a manager.

  2. Philadelphia Phillies: Managed the Phillies from 1997 to 2000, leading the team through several seasons.

  3. Boston Red Sox: Managed the Red Sox from 2004 to 2011, leading them to significant success.

  4. Cleveland Indians/Guardians: Managed the Indians/Guardians from 2013 to 2023, achieving numerous milestones.

  5. Managerial Record: Francona boasts a managerial record of 1,950-1,672 over his 23-year career.

Achievements and Awards

Terry Francona's managerial career is decorated with numerous awards and recognitions.

  1. American League Manager of the Year: Awarded in 2013, 2016, and 2022 for his outstanding managerial skills.

  2. World Series Titles: Won two World Series with the Boston Red Sox in 2004 and 2007, ending the "Curse of the Bambino".

  3. Red Sox Legacy: Led the Red Sox to their first championship since 1918 in 2004 and another in 2007.

  4. Cleveland Indians/Guardians Success: Led the Indians to an AL pennant in 2016 and achieved a 22-game winning streak in 2017, an American League record.

  5. Post-Season Record: Francona has a 44-34 post-season ledger, with a 28-17 mark with the Red Sox and a 16-17 mark with the Indians/Guardians.

Health and Resignation

In 2023, Francona faced health challenges that led to significant changes in his career.

  1. Health Concerns: Resigned from his position as manager of the Cleveland Guardians due to health concerns.

  2. Return to Cincinnati Reds: Set to manage the Cincinnati Reds in 2025 after a year off for health reasons, marking his return to the National League.

  3. Three-Year Deal: Francona has a three-year deal with the Reds, indicating his commitment to the team.

  4. Challenges with the Reds: The Reds face significant challenges, including losing pitcher Nick Martinez to free agency and needing to pare their already-low $100 million payroll.

  5. Broadcast Revenue Loss: The Reds also lost the broadcast revenue stream provided by Diamond Sports.

Young Talent and Future Prospects

Francona inherits a team with promising young talent, setting the stage for future success.

  1. Young Players: The Reds have many young players, including pitcher Hunter Greene and shortstop Elly De La Cruz, both All-Stars in 2024.

  2. Elly De La Cruz: Finished the 2024 season with 67 stolen bases and 25 home runs, showcasing his potential.

  3. Jeimer Candelario: The highest-paid player on the 2025 roster, earning $16 million under his three-year, $45 million contract.

  4. Managerial Successors: Francona succeeds David Bell in Cincinnati, who was dismissed after six seasons with a record of 409 wins and 456 losses.

  5. Career Winning Percentage: Francona owns a .538 career winning percentage, a testament to his managerial prowess.

Legacy and Impact

Terry Francona's legacy in baseball extends beyond his playing and managerial careers, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

  1. World Series Experience: One of only two managers in Major League history to win his first eight consecutive World Series games.

  2. Philadelphia Phillies Stint: Led the Phillies through several successful seasons but left without winning a World Series title.

  3. Boston Red Sox Legacy: Never had a losing season during his tenure with the Red Sox, leading them to two World Series titles.

  4. Cleveland Indians/Guardians Leadership: Led the team to numerous successful seasons and set multiple franchise records.

  5. 22-Game Winning Streak: Achieved a 22-game winning streak in 2017, an American League record and one of the longest in MLB history.

  6. Post-Season Achievements: Led the Red Sox to two World Series titles and guided the Indians to the AL pennant in 2016.

  7. Father's Influence: His father, Tito, played a significant role in his early life and baseball career, inspiring Terry to pursue the sport.

  8. Montreal Expos Debut: Made his major league debut with the Montreal Expos on August 19, 1981, appearing mainly as an outfielder during his first year.

  9. 500th Win: Recorded his 500th win as manager of the Red Sox on June 2, 2009, making him the third manager in club history to achieve this milestone.

  10. 1,000th Game: Became the fourth person to manage 1,000 games for the Red Sox on May 6, 2010, further solidifying his place in Red Sox history.

Terry Francona's Lasting Impact on Baseball

Terry Francona's career in baseball is nothing short of legendary. From his early days as a player to his remarkable success as a manager, Francona has left an indelible mark on the sport. Known for his strategic mind and ability to inspire teams, he led the Boston Red Sox to break the "Curse of the Bambino" and brought the Cleveland Indians to the brink of a World Series title. His managerial record, with over 1,950 wins, speaks volumes about his expertise and dedication. Even after stepping down due to health concerns, his return to manage the Cincinnati Reds in 2025 shows his unwavering passion for the game. Francona's legacy is one of resilience, leadership, and a deep love for baseball, making him a true icon in Major League Baseball history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Terry Francona?
Terry Francona, often nicknamed "Tito," is a former Major League Baseball player and a well-respected manager. Over his career, he's managed teams like the Boston Red Sox and the Cleveland Indians, leading them to numerous victories and even World Series titles.
What makes Terry Francona a notable figure in baseball?
His knack for leadership and strategic decision-making sets him apart. Francona has a reputation for his player-first approach and ability to manage games with a calm demeanor, which has led his teams to significant successes, including two World Series championships with the Red Sox.
How many World Series titles has Terry Francona won as a manager?
Francona has won two World Series titles as a manager, both with the Boston Red Sox, in 2004 and 2007. These victories are especially memorable as the 2004 win broke the "Curse of the Bambino," a long-standing championship drought for the Red Sox.
Did Terry Francona play professional baseball before becoming a manager?
Yes, he did. Before stepping into his role as a manager, Francona had a decade-long career as a professional baseball player. He played as an outfielder and first baseman for several teams, including the Montreal Expos and the Chicago Cubs.
What is Terry Francona known for besides his World Series wins?
Beyond his World Series victories, Francona is known for his strong relationships with players and his ability to manage through adversity. He's also recognized for his strategic use of players and bullpen management, which has made him one of the most respected managers in the league.
Has Terry Francona received any awards for his managerial skills?
Indeed, he has. Francona has received the Manager of the Year Award multiple times, an honor that recognizes his excellence in leadership, strategic game management, and his contributions to his teams' successes during the regular season.
What teams has Terry Francona managed in his career?
Throughout his managerial career, Francona has led several teams, most notably the Philadelphia Phillies, Boston Red Sox, and the Cleveland Indians. Each tenure has contributed to his reputation as one of baseball's most effective and respected managers.

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