DCTribefan
Hall-of-Famer
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Wouldn’t be a Tito story without mention of cribbage. Already posted but I wanted to highlight this except from the article.
"You can learn a lot about a guy watching a guy play something other than baseball, even cribbage," Francona said. "You see how someone takes a risk and wins, and you think, 'I might be able to trust him in the ninth inning.' I played for fun, but I also learned about my players."
Dustin Pedroia and Josh Tomlin were among his regulars, and at one point in Boston, closer Jonathan Papelbon, who had never played, asked to play for money.
With his winnings, Francona said, "Pap built me a finished basement in my house."
In recognition of Tito’s dedication and service, I will set aside my vitriol for his baffling lineup decisions this season and rightfully applaud the man. His successor will certainly have big shoes to fill.
"You can learn a lot about a guy watching a guy play something other than baseball, even cribbage," Francona said. "You see how someone takes a risk and wins, and you think, 'I might be able to trust him in the ninth inning.' I played for fun, but I also learned about my players."
Dustin Pedroia and Josh Tomlin were among his regulars, and at one point in Boston, closer Jonathan Papelbon, who had never played, asked to play for money.
With his winnings, Francona said, "Pap built me a finished basement in my house."
As Francona prepares to say goodbye, a tribute to his humor and humanity
When Terry Francona retires, his legacy will be less about his almost 2,000 wins and more about his ability to connect.
www.espn.com
In recognition of Tito’s dedication and service, I will set aside my vitriol for his baffling lineup decisions this season and rightfully applaud the man. His successor will certainly have big shoes to fill.