Why Terry Francona Isn’t Managing the Reds vs. Mets
Terry Francona was unable to lead the Cincinnati Reds during Saturday night’s matchup against the New York Mets at Great American Ball Park due to illness.
As the Reds push to re-enter the National League Wild Card race, they faced a key opponent in the Mets. However, they had to do so without their manager, who left the stadium before the game began because of flu-like symptoms. The flu has been circulating through the Reds’ clubhouse, affecting multiple players recently.
In Francona’s absence, bench coach Freddie Benavides stepped in to manage the team. Ironically, Benavides himself had been sidelined earlier in the week with similar symptoms.
The Reds nearly pulled off a comeback in Friday’s series opener, loading the bases with no outs in the ninth while trailing 5–4. But Mets closer Edwin Díaz shut the door, preventing the tying run and sealing the win.
To even the series, Cincinnati turned to pitcher Brady Singer for Saturday’s game.
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