DONE DEAL: The Cincinnati Reds Confirm Terry Francona’s Coaching Staff for the 2025 Season
In a highly anticipated move, the Cincinnati Reds have officially confirmed the makeup of Terry Francona’s coaching staff for the 2025 season, marking a new era of leadership for the organization. Francona, who is regarded as one of the most respected and successful managers in Major League Baseball (MLB), takes over a Reds team that has undergone a series of transformations in recent seasons, with a focus on rebuilding and retooling the roster. The announcement of his coaching staff is a significant moment, as it not only provides clarity on the direction of the team but also solidifies the Reds’ commitment to a winning culture under Francona’s experienced leadership.
Francona, a two-time World Series champion with the Boston Red Sox and known for his calm demeanor, sharp tactical mind, and ability to connect with players, brings with him an experienced and versatile coaching staff. The composition of this staff reflects Francona’s philosophy of blending experienced veterans with up-and-coming talent in order to foster an environment that emphasizes player development, accountability, and a commitment to winning.
### Key Members of the Staff
While the full roster of coaches will be revealed in time, several key figures have already been confirmed, providing insight into the strategic approach Francona and the Reds organization are taking heading into the 2025 season.
#### 1. **Bench Coach: Brad Ausmus**
Brad Ausmus, a former MLB catcher and manager, has been named the Reds’ new bench coach under Francona. Ausmus brings a wealth of experience both on the field and in the dugout, having played for 18 seasons in the majors with teams such as the Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, and San Diego Padres. After retiring from playing, he transitioned to managing, including a four-year stint as the Tigers’ manager from 2014 to 2017.
Ausmus’s deep understanding of the game, particularly his expertise in managing pitching staffs and handling game strategy, makes him an ideal choice for bench coach. As Francona’s right-hand man, Ausmus will be responsible for helping manage in-game decisions, particularly late in games when tactical nuances are most crucial. He will also play an integral role in the development of young talent, helping the Reds’ younger players adjust to the demands of big-league competition.
#### 2. **Pitching Coach: Carl Willis**
Carl Willis, who has an extensive history as a pitching coach at both the MLB and minor league levels, will return for a second season with the Reds in 2025, taking on the role of pitching coach under Francona. Willis, who has previously coached for the Cleveland Indians (now Guardians) during Francona’s tenure there, is known for his ability to maximize the potential of pitchers and develop young arms into key contributors at the major league level.
The Reds’ pitching staff has been in transition over the past few seasons, with a mix of talented prospects and veterans. Willis will be tasked with fine-tuning the team’s pitching strategies and helping develop emerging stars. His experience working with pitchers like Corey Kluber and Carlos Carrasco in Cleveland will be invaluable as the Reds look to solidify their pitching staff in the coming years.
#### 3. **Hitting Coach: Kevin Long**
Kevin Long, one of the most respected hitting coaches in the league, has been named the Reds’ hitting coach for 2025. Long is well-known for his success in helping hitters elevate their performance and adjust to different pitching styles. He has worked with numerous big-league teams, including the New York Mets and Washington Nationals, where he played a key role in turning around their offensive production.
Under Long’s tutelage, the Reds’ hitters will focus on making consistent, quality contact and improving their plate discipline. The Reds’ lineup has struggled in recent years with striking out and leaving men on base, and Long’s expertise will be critical in helping players like Jonathan India, Tyler Stephenson, and other key hitters get on track. Long’s reputation for turning around struggling hitters makes him a pivotal part of the team’s success moving forward.
#### 4. **First Base Coach: Willie Randolph**
Willie Randolph, a former MLB All-Star and longtime manager, has been named the first base coach for the Reds in 2025. Randolph, who enjoyed a distinguished playing career with the New York Yankees and later managed the New York Mets, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. His understanding of the game, especially his expertise in base running and defensive positioning, will be invaluable for the Reds, particularly as the team continues to emphasize a strong fundamental approach to the game.
As first base coach, Randolph will work closely with players on base-running techniques, stealing bases, and taking proper leads. His leadership on the field will also help instill a sense of discipline and accountability in the players, especially with a young team that may need guidance in these areas.
#### 5. **Third Base Coach: DeMarlo Hale**
DeMarlo Hale, another trusted member of Francona’s coaching staff from their days together in Cleveland, will serve as the Reds’ third base coach for 2025. Hale has a strong background in player development, and his experience in managing and coaching at various levels of baseball will be crucial in helping the Reds’ coaching staff execute their game plans.
Hale is known for his attention to detail and for being highly skilled at managing bullpen usage and fielding shifts. He will play an important role in coordinating the team’s defensive positioning and in making sure the Reds are well-prepared for opposing teams’ offensive strategies. His work with the team’s outfielders and infielders will help ensure the Reds continue to improve on defense.
### Strategic Vision for the Reds Under Francona
The Reds have been in a rebuilding phase for the past several years, focusing on developing a young core of talent. The appointment of Terry Francona and his carefully chosen coaching staff signals a renewed commitment to player development and creating a winning culture. Francona’s leadership style emphasizes communication, respect, and hard work, and he’s known for creating a clubhouse environment where players are empowered to perform at their best.
Francona’s familiarity with the Reds’ roster, thanks to his time managing in the American League, gives him a unique perspective on how to approach the National League’s strategies and dynamics. He’s not just bringing in a coaching staff, but an entire philosophy—one that values a strong work ethic, mental toughness, and a focus on developing young talent. With the Reds sitting on a wealth of prospects, including pitchers like Hunter Greene and Graham Ashcraft and hitters like Elly De La Cruz and Matt McLain, Francona’s leadership will be key in helping them maximize their potential.
The Reds’ 2025 season is shaping up to be one of excitement and anticipation, with a mix of veteran leadership, promising young talent, and an experienced coaching staff led by one of the game’s most respected managers. Francona’s appointment signals that the Reds are serious about building a championship-caliber team for the future, and the confirmation of his coaching staff is just the first step in that direction. The team will be aiming to compete not just in 2025, but for years to come, with Francona’s steady hand guiding the way.
Leave a Reply