Sept. 28 (UPI) — Cleveland Guardians manager Terry Francona expressed his gratitude and touched sentiments after being celebrated in his final home game against the Cincinnati Reds, where the Guardians secured a 4-3 victory.
Francona opened up about the emotional sendoff during an interview at Progressive Field in Cleveland. Surprisingly, Francona’s retirement plans were not known until the game, when he held a meeting with players to announce his decision.
During the game, fans wore “Thank You Tito” T-shirts, displaying their appreciation for Francona. The Guardians paid tribute to their manager with a heartfelt video shown on the outfield scoreboard before the game, which was met with a standing ovation from both players and fans.
When asked whether this was his final season, Francona confidently replied, “I think it has to be. Once you give out T-shirts, you can’t be going back. That’s not good. It’s like the worst-kept secret ever. I think it was respectful to tell them. I just wanted to thank them.”
Francona expressed that his 11-year tenure with the Guardians was “the honor of a lifetime.”
After the game, players lined up to hug Francona, and fans continued to shower him with a prolonged standing ovation.
Reflecting on the emotional display, Francona told reporters, “I was like ‘Come on, man. Enough.’ I think that’s why they were doing it just because they knew I was kind of feeling it. Believe me, down deep, I was really touched. I guess what I’m just trying to convey is the 11 years here are what is the best part. It’s not like the last day. It’s everything I lived through here with the people I was with. That’s what I care about.”
Francona, who had previously played 10 seasons as a first baseman, pinch hitter, and outfielder, began his managerial career in 1997 with the Philadelphia Phillies. He later went on to manage the Boston Red Sox for eight seasons.
This accomplished three-time Manager of the Year and two-time World Series champion, who has faced health issues in recent years, took over as the Guardians’ manager in 2013.
With 1,948 victories, Francona currently holds the 13th position in MLB history for the most wins by a manager.
The Guardians’ victory over the Reds was aided by ace pitcher Shane Bieber, who allowed just one run in six innings. Runs were driven in by first baseman Josh Naylor, second baseman Tyler Freeman, shortstop Brayan Rocchio, and third baseman Jose Tena.
The Guardians (75-84) will conclude their season against the Detroit Tigers (74-83) in a three-game series starting Friday in Detroit, following their split two-game series with the Reds (81-78).
