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.

Luke (Maile) had an opportunity to play with him in Cleveland,” Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson said, “and I remember when we were in Chicago after all this went down, he had nothing but positive things to say about Terry (Francona) and just raved about him.

He cited health issues when he stepped down last year and had missed time for multiple ailments during his time in Cleveland, including toe and hip surgeries. Francona had shoulder replacement surgery and double hernia surgery soon after the season last year.