Cincinnati Reds Manager Terry Francona Talks Baseball with Thom Brennaman! | DIALED IN 3.13.25

Terry Francona, the newly appointed manager of the Cincinnati Reds, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to a team eager to return to postseason glory. Hired in October 2024 after a year away from baseball, Francona emerged from retirement to take the helm of a young, talented Reds squad that has struggled to translate potential into consistent success. As of March 13, 2025, with spring training underway, Francona’s presence has already injected optimism into a franchise that hasn’t reached the playoffs in a full season since 2013. Francona’s managerial resume is nothing short of illustrious. A likely future Hall of Famer, he boasts two World Series titles with the Boston Red Sox (2004, 2007), ending the infamous Curse of the Bambino, and led the Cleveland Guardians to an American League pennant in 2016. Over 23 seasons as a manager, he has amassed 1,950 wins, earned three Manager of the Year awards, and posted winning records in 18 of his last 19 seasons. His decision to unretire came after Reds president of baseball operations Nick Krall and GM Brad Meador visited him in Tucson, sparking a renewed sense of purpose. Francona has cited health challenges as a reason for stepping away in 2023, but surgeries to replace his shoulder and repair a double hernia during his hiatus revitalized him for this new chapter. Known for his humor and player-friendly approach, Francona has quickly endeared himself to Reds fans and players alike. His spring training debut on February 22, 2025, marked his return to the dugout after 510 days, managing a split-squad game against the Milwaukee Brewers. Early reports highlight his enthusiasm—“My favorite place in the world is the ballpark,” he said—and his focus on fostering a competitive culture. He’s already navigating challenges, such as prospect Cam Collier’s thumb surgery, with a pragmatic optimism that resonates with the team. Francona inherits a roster brimming with potential, led by stars like Elly De La Cruz and Hunter Greene, alongside promising talents like Matt McLain and Spencer Steer. His challenge is clear: harness this youth movement to end Cincinnati’s playoff drought. With his history of turning teams into contenders, Francona’s leadership could be the catalyst the Reds need to reclaim their place among baseball’s elite in 2025 and beyond.