One of the most distinguished MLB managers of recent times, Terry Francona, has strongly suggested that he will call it a day after the 2023 MLB season, as reported by MLB Network Radio.
While Francona did not formally announce his retirement, his intentions were unmistakable. He said, “I’ve been pretty clear with the guys I’ve worked for and told them to start preparing because it’s time.”
In a more detailed response, Francona stated, “I think I’ve been pretty clear with people. I don’t want the last month to be a sendoff or a pity party. That’s not how I feel. But it’s time. 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 because It’s time.”
These remarks show that Francona is contemplating retirement once the 2023 season concludes. If this marks the end of his illustrious career, it has been an extraordinary journey. Francona’s managerial career took off when he was appointed by the Boston Red Sox in 2004. He led the team to its first World Series title in his inaugural season since 1918. Over his eight-year tenure with the Red Sox, he accumulated a remarkable record of 744 wins and 522 losses, securing another World Series victory in 2007. Francona left the Red Sox following the 2011 season, citing the need for “a new voice.”
Terry Francona addresses his future as the Guardians manager.#ForTheLand | @CleGuardians pic.twitter.com/hRrYycVkGH
— MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM (@MLBNetworkRadio) September 5, 2023
After a brief hiatus, Francona took the helm in Cleveland, now known as the Guardians. In his 11 seasons with the club, he guided them to six playoff appearances, with the pinnacle being the 2016 World Series, where the Chicago Cubs narrowly defeated them. Francona has an impressive career record of 911 wins and 743 losses with the Guardians.
While Francona’s chances of steering the Guardians to a World Series title in 2023 appear slim, his legacy as one of the game’s premier managers is unquestionable. The Guardians currently sit at 66-72, 10.5 games behind the final American League wild-card spot and six games behind the Minnesota Twins for the division lead in the AL Central. Unless a remarkable turnaround occurs, postseason baseball may elude them.
The 64-year-old Francona’s future in managing remains uncertain. He could potentially stage a comeback after taking some time off, similar to his return after leaving the Red Sox. Alternatively, he might call it a career and enjoy well-deserved relaxation at home.
Should Francona choose to retire, the Hall of Fame could be the next stop on his journey. Over 23 years of managing, he has maintained an impressive .539 winning percentage. Francona broke the Red Sox’s World Series curse and secured another championship. While he couldn’t replicate that success with the Guardians, his tenure was marked by significant accomplishments.
