Terry Francona has been hired as the new manager of the Cincinnati Reds, marking his return to the major leagues after stepping down from his position in Cleveland due to health reasons a year ago. The decision was confirmed by a source familiar with the situation on Thursday night, although the Reds had not officially announced the move.
Francona, who will turn 66 in April, is taking over from David Bell, who was relieved of his duties by the Reds after six seasons with a record of 409-456. Francona previously played for Cincinnati in 1987, where he had a batting average of .227 with three home runs and 12 RBIs in 102 games.
