Terry Francona returns to Cleveland as the Reds lead the Guardians 4-1 on June 9, 2025. José Ramírez extends his streak, but can the Guardians rally?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It's a strange and sentimental sight at Progressive Field tonight. The man who guided the franchise for over a decade, Terry Francona, is back in town. But this time, he's in the visitor's dugout, managing the Cincinnati Reds. While a wave of nostalgia washes over Cleveland, there's a game to be played, and unfortunately for the home crowd, Tito's new squad has come out swinging.
José Ramírez has now reached base in 34 consecutive games, the longest streak for a Cleveland player since Jason Kipnis' 36-game run in 2013.
There aren't many managers who get a hero's welcome as an opponent, but Terry 'Tito' Francona isn't just any manager. His return to Cleveland for the first time since taking the helm in Cincinnati is the story of the night. It's a bittersweet reunion for fans who remember the thrilling rides to the postseason under his leadership. Seeing him in Reds gear, exchanging lineup cards against his former team, is a moment packed with a decade's worth of memories.
On the field, the reunion hasn't been as pleasant for the Guardians. As of the middle innings, the Reds hold a 4-1 lead. Starting pitcher Luis Ortiz (3-6, 4.02 ERA) has battled, but the Cincinnati offense has managed to push runs across. The Guardians' bats have been mostly quiet, struggling to string together hits and put pressure on the Reds. They'll need to find a spark soon to avoid letting Francona walk out of his old home with a win.
One constant bright spot has been the incredible consistency of José Ramírez. With a single in yesterday's game, J-Ram brought a 34-game on-base streak into tonight's contest, the longest for the franchise since Jason Kipnis in 2013. In a game where runs are at a premium, Ramírez's ability to get on base is more critical than ever. He's not just the heart of the lineup; he's its ever-beating pulse.
The night is far from over. Can the Guardians rally against their former skipper and defend their home turf? All eyes will be on whether the offense can wake up to chip away at the Reds' lead. Beyond tonight, this series is a key test, and fans will be eagerly watching to see just how long José Ramírez can keep his historic streak alive.
