(Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
The Cleveland Guardians played their last home game of the season on Wednesday.
It resulted in a 4-3 victory against the Cincinnati Reds.
The game was special because it was the last time Terry Francona acted as the Guardians’ manager at Progressive Field before going into retirement.
Francona’s body has been through a lot over the years, and the life of a baseball player, coach and/or manager is not easy.
It involves a lot of traveling, a lot of time away from the family, and the chances something bad happening at X city, like it happened to Francona in Kansas City this year.
It’s time for him to take it easy, enjoy some quality time with his family, and enjoy the game as a fan.
The city of Cleveland gave him a proper sendoff on Wednesday in one of the most touching moments of the season.
“This one’s for you, Tito. The @CleGuardians take the last game of the season at Progressive Field as Terry Francona is sent off with a standing ovation,” Bally Sports Cleveland tweeted, with the emotional video.
This one’s for you, Tito
The @CleGuardians take the last game of the season at Progressive Field as Terry Francona is sent off with a standing ovation #ForTheLand | #ThankYouTito pic.twitter.com/GWtJKxOIQD
— Bally Sports Cleveland (@BallySportsCLE) September 28, 2023
After Emmanuel Clase got the last out with a slow roller to first base, players lined up to give Francona one last hug in front of the Cleveland fans.
The crowd roared in support of the man that took them to the World Series in 2016, with a sign reading “Francona Forever” and players recognizing his incredible 26-year tenure as an MLB manager.
Francona helped shape a winning culture in Cleveland and his contributions won’t be forgotten.
The post Terry Francona Received An Emotional Farewell In Final Home Game appeared first on The Cold Wire.
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