Strand stopped at the top of the dugout steps to have a quick word – and laugh – with Terry Francona before heading to the on-deck circle for a fifth-inning at-bat. At which point the Cincinnati Reds manager called the slugger back to the dugout rail and kissed the barrel of Encarnacion-Strand’s bat before sending him back out.

Terry Francona makes his first return to Cleveland since taking over as manager of the Cincinnati Reds. Follow along here for live updates.

Jake Fraley, had three hits, including a home run in the fourth inning, Wade Miley got his first win since 2023 and the Cincinnati Reds beat the Cleveland Guardians 7-4 Monday night in Terry Francona's return to Progressive Field.