Sunday marks game 162 for each team around MLB. However, it won't be a normal offseaosn for the Cleveland Guardians as they'll be searching for a new manager for the first time in 11 seasons.
Terry Francona spoke in the middle of what will most likely be the final game of his career and described his decision to step away after the season:
"I spent a lot of time this summer kind of grinding on it. It actually aggravated me because I was like, 'Hey man you're either in or out let's go.' ... But when I finally talked to (Chris Antonetti) and (Mike Chernoff), it felt good, it felt right ... I have so much to be thankful for in this game, with this organization, and in the city. I'm good."
There it is. If fans were still curious as to whether Tito has told the front office he's retiring they don't have to wonder anymore. Francona all but admitted that he's told the team President of Baseball Operations and General Manager that Sunday will be his last game.
Tito has yet to formally announce or say the words, "I'm retiring." However, it feels like that's coming within the next couple of days.
When Francona does formally declare his retirement, he'll finish as arguably the best manager the organization has ever had. He currently has the most wins (921) by a Cleveland manager and has won Manager of the Year awards in 2013, 2016, and 2023.
It'll be weird to have someone different managing the Guardians in 2023. Knowing that Tito is walking away at peace with his decision and on his own terms does make this bittersweet moment better.
More must-reads: