CINCINNATI — A legendary milestone was reached at Great American Ballpark on Sunday as Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona became just the 13th manager in Major League Baseball history to notch 2,000 career wins. The Reds secured the milestone victory with a 4-2 win over the Colorado Rockies in their final game before the All-Star break.
Now in his 24th season as a big-league manager and his first at the helm of the Reds, the 66-year-old Francona previously managed the Phillies (1997–2000), Red Sox (2004–2011)—where he won two World Series titles—and the Cleveland Guardians (2013–2023), where he became the franchise’s all-time winningest manager.
Despite the historic achievement, Francona remained focused on the team’s current trajectory rather than his personal legacy.
“I didn’t think about it at all,” he said. “I just wanted the win to get us three games over .500 before the break. That meant more to me today.”
To celebrate, the Reds surprised Francona with a video tribute featuring former players and coaches from across his career, including David Ortiz, Francisco Lindor, Dustin Pedroia, and others who praised his leadership, mentorship, and deep love for the game.
Francona joins Bruce Bochy of the Texas Rangers as the only active managers to surpass the 2,000-win mark. Of the 11 other managers to hit that milestone, 10 are Hall of Famers, reinforcing the significance of Francona’s accomplishment. Dusty Baker, who retired in 2023, is expected to join them upon eligibility in 2026.
With a career record of 2,000–1,719 (.515 winning percentage), Francona’s managerial résumé includes:
Two World Series titles (2004, 2007 with Boston)
Three-time AL Manager of the Year (2013, 2016, 2022 with Cleveland)
Franchise records in wins for Cleveland (921) and second-most for Boston (744)
Reporters and baseball insiders praised Francona’s impact, not just in wins and championships, but in the player-first culture he fostered throughout his career.
“He was a Hall of Famer long before this milestone,” said longtime Cleveland beat writer Paul Hoynes. “He brings out the best in his players.”
Fellow reporter Joe Noga added, “His influence goes beyond the field—he shaped locker rooms and transformed teams. That’s what makes him one of the greats.”
A self-described “baseball lifer,” Francona remains humble about his place in history. “Some of those names on the list are royalty,” he said. “I just love the game—probably too much—and try to treat the players the way they deserve to be treated.”
With his latest milestone behind him, Francona continues to lead the Reds with a steady hand and an enduring passion for the sport.
