Report: Reds Pitcher Sends Inspiring 6-Word Message About New Manager

New Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona kicked off spring training on Monday with his traditional welcome speech, leaving a strong impression on at least one player. “He got all of us fired up,” said Reds pitcher Andrew Abbott, as reported by the Cincinnati Enquirer. Francona addressed over 140 people, including the full spring training roster, marking his return to managing after a year-long break.

Abbott described the speech as energetic and focused on both team success and individual improvement. Francona’s hiring signals Cincinnati’s intent to become a serious playoff contender again. One of the most accomplished managers of this century, he guided the Red Sox and Guardians to two World Series titles and three pennants. The Reds have mostly been a middle-of-the-pack team in recent years, finishing around .500, aside from a 100-loss season in 2022, in a competitive NL Central. Their last playoff appearance came in 2020, and they haven’t won a postseason game since 2012.

“He got all of us fired up,” Reds pitcher Andrew Abbott said. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Francona addressed over 140 people, including the entire spring training roster

Francona, a three-time Manager of the Year, has a reputation for winning regardless of roster limitations or payroll constraints. During his 11-year tenure in Cleveland, the team had only two losing seasons despite operating with one of the league’s smallest budgets. “He wants the best for you, but he’s also gonna push you to your max and then try to get even more out of you if he can,” Abbott added.

Despite Francona’s arrival, oddsmakers remain cautious about the Reds’ chances. FanDuel Sportsbook has set their projected win total at 78.5. However, given Abbott’s enthusiasm after Francona’s speech, he might be betting on the over.