"It's Time:" Terry Francona Further Address Retirement, Future As Guardians Manager

Terry Francona continues to hint that this is his last season managing the Cleveland Guardians.

© Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Terry Francona shockingly stated on August 22 that there had been talks with Chris Antonetti and Mike Chernoff about what the future for the Cleveland Guardians and Tito looked like. Cleveland's skipper has a well-documented list of health issues that have affected his ability to be with the team and Francona already has more surgeries scheduled for the offseason. 

It may have been surprising to hear Tito open up about where his head was at regarding a potential retirement, but the reality of him stepping away isn't all breaking news considering all he's been through. 

The future hall of fame manager doubled down on his comments and he's only continued to prepare fans and the baseball world for his inevitable retirement announcement saying:

"I've been pretty clear with people. I don't want to have the last month be a send of or a pity party because that's not how I feel. But, it's time and my body is telling me that, my head is telling me that and I don't want to stay on for the wrong reasons. I hope I have too much respect for not just the game, but for this organization to do that. So, I've been pretty clear with the guys I work for and told them to start preparing."

That's about as close to saying "I'm retiring" without saying "I'm retiring. as you can get"

Jun 23, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Guardians manager Terry Francona walks on to the field to challenge a call during the third inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports / © Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

There shouldn't be a doubt in anyone's mind that Francona will end up in Cooperstown shortly after hanging it up. He's won two World Series, three Manager of the Year Awards, is the winningest manager in Clevland history, and has impacted so many players and coaches throughout the league.

Baseball will miss this legend, but it appears that it is Tito's time to say goodbye.