Cincinnati Holds Its Breath Over Francona’s Recovery
CINCINNATI — September 8, 2025 — The Cincinnati Reds and their fans continue to keep a close eye on manager Terry Francona’s health after the veteran skipper missed Saturday’s matchup against the New York Mets due to illness.
While the Reds rallied to secure a 6–3 victory under acting manager Freddie Benavides, Francona’s absence was felt in the dugout. The 66-year-old manager, known for his steady leadership and championship pedigree, has not yet been cleared to return, but team sources remain optimistic about a swift recovery.
“Francona is a fighter,” one team insider noted. “The organization is giving him the space to rest, but everyone believes he’ll be back leading the team very soon.”
The timing of his illness comes during a critical stretch in the Reds’ playoff chase. Cincinnati currently sits just above .500 and remains in the thick of the Wild Card race, making Francona’s guidance all the more vital.
Fans have flooded social media with messages of support, praising the manager’s resilience and expressing hope for his quick return. The Reds, meanwhile, are moving forward with Benavides at the helm until Francona is ready to rejoin the club.
For now, the Reds are treating the situation as day-to-day, and updates on Francona’s recovery are expected in the coming days.
About the Author
