There wasn't a lone factor that allowed Stephen Vogt the confidence he has in his job today, but his predecessor, Terry Francona, certainly helped.

Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona watches a batting practice session at the Cincinnati Reds Player Development Complex in Goodyear, Ariz., on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025. Mandatory Credit: Sam Greene/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images / Cincinnati Enquirer-Imagn Images

These games need to be about the players,” Francona said of not facing off against his former team. “It doesn’t need to be a hug-fest."