John Patsy “Tito” Francona, the father of current Clevelan Indians manager Terry Francona and a former Indians outfielder, has died at 84, according to a press release from the team.
Today is the day that pitchers and catchers report to spring training in Good Year, Ariz.
The elder Francona had a 15-year MLB career, and spent six seasons with the Indians from 1959-1964. He was an All-Star during the 1961 season. With the Indians, Tito batted .284 with 85 home runs and 378 RBI.
His MLB debut came in 1956 with the Baltimore Orioles. He also spent time with Atlanta, St.