Team president Nick Krall, who barely knew Francona, called the two-time World Series champion from Chicago during the Reds’ off day before their final weekend series of the season.

Terry Francona has been hired to manage the Cincinnati Reds, returning to the major leagues a year after he stepped down in Cleveland because of health reasons.

Francona, who won two World Series with the Red Sox, stepped away after last season following a stint with the Cleveland Guardians.