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REPORT: Terry Francona makes surprising decision ahead of Reds spring training opener
The Cincinnati Reds will kick off their Cactus League schedule on Saturday with a unique challenge—playing two games at the same time. The team will split into two squads, with one facing the Cleveland Guardians at Goodyear Ballpark and the other taking on the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Fields in Phoenix.
In an interesting twist, new Reds manager Terry Francona will travel with the squad playing the Brewers, while bench coach Freddie Benavides will manage the group staying in Goodyear against Cleveland. Francona explained that he wanted to avoid an emotional reunion with his former team and instead focus on establishing himself as part of the Reds organization.
According to Cincinnati reporter Mike Petraglia, Francona made his stance clear, stating, “I want these guys to know how important they are. I’m a f—— Red, and so I’m gonna go over to Maryvale.”
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Reds manager Terry Francona skips out on spring training opener vs. Guardians
If that response from Francona doesn’t fire you up, you might not have a pulse. He could’ve taken the easy route—staying in Goodyear, catching up with former players, and enjoying a laid-back exhibition against the team he led for over a decade. But instead, Tito made it clear where his loyalty lies, proving to his new squad that he’s fully committed and has their backs from day one.
Terry Francona says he will take the split squad on the road in Maryvale vs. Milwaukee Saturday while Freddie Benavides will stay back and manage the split squad game against Cleveland in Goodyear. His explanation is classic Tito “You know what, these games need to be about the…
— Mike Petraglia (@Trags) February 20, 2025
With Francona leading his squad to Maryvale, he’ll have a keen eye on Graham Ashcraft, who surprisingly gets the start against the Brewers. Ashcraft will be followed by Luis Mey, Chase Petty, Lyon Richardson, Alex Young, and Yosver Zulueta.
Meanwhile, according to Reds reporter Charlie Goldsmith, the other half of the roster will be led by ace Hunter Greene in Goodyear. He’ll be followed by Ian Gibaut, Connor Phillips, Taylor Rogers, Bryan Shaw, and Lenny Torres Jr.