Francona sounds more interested in preparing the Reds for the season — his first as their manager — than helping add more data in an ABS test run.

Terry Francona explained why he's encouraging Reds players not to make any challenges using the ABS system, which MLB is testing during roughly half of spring training games this year.

There wasn't a lone factor that allowed Stephen Vogt the confidence he has in his job today, but his predecessor, Terry Francona, certainly helped.

GOODYEAR, Ariz. — Terry Francona, the winningest manager in Cleveland history, will not be in the dugout when his new team, the Cincinnati Reds, opens the Cactus League season against the Guardians on Saturday at Goodyear Ballpark.

Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona watches a batting practice session at the Cincinnati Reds Player Development Complex in Goodyear, Ariz., on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025. Mandatory Credit: Sam Greene/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images / Cincinnati Enquirer-Imagn Images

Reds manager Terry Francona plans to opt out of elective participation in the Automated Ball-Strike Challenge trial during spring training, but is willing to let Cincinnati's minor-league players accustomed to the procedure use challenges.

Reds manager Terry Francona plans to opt out of elective participation in the Automated Ball-Strike Challenge trial during spring training, but is willing to let Cincinnati's minor-league players accu

Francona started calling players as soon as he was hired in October, and Ian Gibaut — who once pitched for him — was his first call.