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| TERRY FRANCONA |
Francona changed the 'culture' in Cleveland in turning the team from 94 losses to 92 wins.
When Terry arrived in Cleveland his 'presence' was immediately felt...players like Nick Swisher and Michael Bourn 'Free Agents' last year where willing to come to Cleveland to play for Francona.
"It was evident last offseason,as we were talking to 'Free Agents' - how much people and players wanted to play for Tito" said Indians General Manager Chris Antonetti.
Francona's best move may have been his hiring of Mickey Callaway as pitching coach.
The Indians staff of Michael Bourn,Asdrubal Cabrera,Vinnie Pestano and closer Chris Perez all had off years.But under the guidance of Antonetti,both Scott Kazmir and Ubaldo Jimenez made amazing turnarounds in their careers.
Mike Aviles who played for Francona in Boston also had a great year.
The season was not without its problems,by August the Indians had released number three starter Brett Myers and power hitter Mark Reynolds.
Terry had to really juggle the lineup down the stretch as the Indians had to win 15 of their last 17 games to qualify for the postseason.
The Indians did not have a 25 HR or 90 RBI man on the team.
But in the end it was Francona's managerial ability that got the Indians into the postseason and for this Terry Francona is Manager of the Year.
Tomorrow: The Cy Young Award.
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