Terry Francona was unable to manage the Cincinnati Reds during Saturday night’s game against the New York Mets at Great American Ball Park due to illness. Francona, who is battling flu-like symptoms, left the stadium before the game began. The flu has been circulating through the Reds’ clubhouse recently, affecting multiple team members.
In Francona’s absence, bench coach Freddie Benavides took over managerial duties. Interestingly, Benavides had also been sidelined earlier in the week with similar symptoms.
The Reds are fighting to stay in contention for a National League Wild Card spot. Friday night’s series opener was a missed opportunity, as they loaded the bases in the ninth inning while trailing 5-4 but failed to score, thanks to a dominant closing performance by Mets reliever Edwin Díaz.
On Saturday, Cincinnati turned to pitcher Brady Singer in hopes of evening the series. Currently, the Reds trail the Mets by six games in the Wild Card standings. Teams ahead of them include the Cubs, Padres, and Mets, while they’re being closely followed by the Giants and Diamondbacks.
Despite not having a power-heavy lineup, the Reds rely on key contributors like shortstop Elly De La Cruz and first baseman Spencer Steer. De La Cruz is hitting .268 with 19 home runs, 78 RBIs, and 32 stolen bases. Steer has 17 homers, 64 RBIs, and a .238 batting average.
The Reds need a strong finish to the season if they hope to climb back into the playoff picture.
