The Cincinnati Reds are gearing up for their season opener at home against the Boston Red Sox this Thursday. But before that, they've got a couple of games lined up against the Milwaukee Brewers. Reds manager Terry Francona sheds light on why these scrimmages are crucial.
“We don’t usually hit in the stadium during spring training; it’s mostly on the backfields. Even though the stadiums in Arizona are big, most teams take batting practice in the stadium.
We want to get into that rhythm. Playing in Milwaukee is a sure thing with the roof, so it doesn’t disrupt our pitching plans,” Francona explained.
It's a time-honored tradition for the Reds to start their season at home, but their first away game will be in Milwaukee. Francona emphasizes the importance of getting used to the big stadiums, with their loudspeakers and unique batter's eyes, at American Family Field, a venue where significant games await them this season.
Last year, the Reds broke their playoff drought, making it for the first time since 2020, although they fell to the Los Angeles Dodgers without a win. Now, with Francona in his first year leading the team, they’re hungry for more success. Despite Hunter Greene's injury casting a shadow over spring training, Cincinnati's playoff hopes remain strong.
Francona isn’t taking it easy as the season kicks off. After facing the Red Sox, they’ll host the Pittsburgh Pirates, led by Paul Skenes, before hitting the road against the Texas Rangers. If Francona’s strategy of familiarizing players with MLB stadiums pays off, the Reds could be in for an exciting spring.
Mark your calendars-Opening Day is this Thursday.