Cincinnati Reds Manager Terry Francona Explains Why He Was Ready to Manage Again

Francona's health was a major factor in his decision to stop managing after the 2023 season.

Greg Kuffner | 3 Hours Ago

New Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona holds his jersey after an event to introduce the new manager at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. / Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

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Cincinnati Reds

Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona joined High Heat on MLB Network to discuss being the new manager of the Cincinnati Reds.

Francona talked about his health and how he has lost nearly 30 pounds since last season, as well as the talent on the Reds' roster.

"I actually had a really good summer. I needed to step away," Francona said. "My health just wasn't allowing me to do the job the way you're supposed to."

He mentioned how good the season off was for him and how he was able to focus on his health. He lost 30 pounds,

"I am up to 30 (pounds lost) now. My suit doesn't fit anymore, which I guess is a good thing," Francona said. "I've tried really hard to be healthy. Because we didn't have the stress of a season, I was able to take care of myself."

The two-time World Series Champion likes the youth and athleticism on the Reds' roster.

"What I am really excited about is this team has youth and they're very athletic," Francona said. "They actually remind me of Cleveland a couple of years ago. When you are that young, we can make a difference as coaches and a manager. I am looking forward to it. It does get me excited."

Watch the full interview below:

Baseball is better with Tito in it!

New @Reds manager Terry Francona joins us on #HighHeat and details his "off-the-charts excitement" to return to an MLB dugout. pic.twitter.com/YtIr8lFRHX
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) October 7, 2024